Mathieu Debuchy has also been ruled out for three months after an operation on his dislocated shoulder, with Arsene Wenger ​confirming, "I count three months out for Mathieu because contact will be a problem for the shoulder."
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Both players have endured injury plagued seasons so far, with Debuchy having only just returned from a lengthy layoff.
Arteta hasn't played since suffering a calf problem in late November. He then suffered a related ankle problem shortly afterwards and the recovery time from his recent surgery is expected to be 12 weeks.
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But despite the news that he will be without his captain's much needed experience for a while longer Arsene Wenger tried to remain positive by telling Arsenal.com that overall he thinks it will work out for the best.
"Mikel has had surgery which went well. I have just seen him, he is back with us at the training ground.
"He had a limited mobility in his ankle and some persistent inflammation that had an impact on his calf. That meant we had to make the decision to have surgery and it's a proper solution which gives him the best chance to recover."
But while he seems to accept Arteta's extended absence, Wenger is extremely disappointed for Debuchy
"It's very unfortunate for Mathieu," the boss commented, adding, "it's unbelievable because he's had two surgeries in the same season. He just came back, he played seven games and he's out again."