Mikel Arteta confirms 25-year-old Arsenal star won't face Benfica

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Rob Holding won't take any part in the upcoming Europa League clash against Benfica.

The centre-back was substituted due to concussion against Manchester City last weekend and he is now sidelined for a week due to the protocols.

Speaking ahead of the Benfica game, Arteta revealed that the 25-year-old is completely fine but won't be able to travel for tomorrow's game.

"Regarding Rob, he’s not available [against Benfica]. He had a concussion, we tested him and he’s completely fine but obviously now we need to follow the protocols and he won’t be able to travel," He told Arsenal.com.

The Gunners drew 1-1 against Benfica in the away leg of the Europa League round of 16 last week which was played at the Stadio Olimpico.

They will host the Portuguese side at the Karaiskakis Stadium in Greece for the home leg due to coronavirus restrictions.

David Luiz and Gabriel Magalhaes were the central defensive duo during the reverse fixture in Rome earlier last week.

The pair are likely to continue alongside each other with Pablo Mari, who started at the weekend, dropping to the bench.