Unai Emery hopes Aaron Ramsey’s calf injury is “not a big problem” after the midfielder was not risked in Arsenal’s International Champions Cup clash against Chelsea.
The Welsh midfielder had been named in the Gunners’ starting line-up for the game but was withdrawn at the last moment, with Emile Smith Rowe coming in.
Emery, whose side claimed a 6-5 penalty shootout victory following a 1-1 draw, said in his post-match press conference: “He has got a little pain in his muscle and we decided not to start him because it is maybe a big risk for him.
“But I am awaiting the medical analysis and I think it’s not a big problem.”
Ramsey is entering the last 12 months of his Arsenal contract and has yet to agree a new deal.
Emery is unsure over the 27-year-old’s future but is keen for him to stay.
When asked about the situation, he added: “I don’t know. This is one question for the club and for the player.
“I am very, very concentrated and my focus is thinking every day for the training, for the players, for the match on Saturday against Lazio and then starting against Manchester City.
“Ramsey’s with us. The contract is a question for the club and for the player.
“My opinion is clear, I want him to be with us. He’s the type of player I want in this team. But the contract is one thing only for the club and the player.”