Arsenal Part Ways With Head Doctor Following Injury-Hit Campaign
Sports Updated: 09 June 2026 08:31 EAT
Dr. Zafar Iqbal
Arsenal have reportedly parted ways with head of sports medicine and performance Dr. Zafar Iqbal at the end of the season in a major behind-the-scenes change following a campaign heavily affected by injuries.
Dr. Iqbal, who joined Arsenal in 2024, had been responsible for overseeing player medical care, rehabilitation processes and overall performance support across the first team. He arrived at the club with extensive experience in elite football after holding senior medical roles at Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and other top-level organisations.
The decision to end his tenure reportedly came shortly after Arsenal completed their season, with senior club leadership communicating the move internally. Reports suggested the development surprised sections of the club’s medical and performance staff.
Attention quickly turned to Arsenal’s injury record during the season, which saw several key players spend extended periods unavailable. The club dealt with recurring setbacks affecting important members of Mikel Arteta’s squad during crucial stages of domestic and European competition.
Among the notable injury cases were Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori, all of whom missed periods of action during the campaign and forced adjustments to team selection.
Reports also indicated that Arsenal had previously launched an internal review of their injury situation as part of a wider assessment of performance and medical operations. External expertise was reportedly brought in to help evaluate existing processes and identify areas for improvement.
Despite the injury concerns, Arsenal remained competitive across multiple competitions and completed one of their strongest seasons under Arteta. The club continued to challenge at the highest level while managing player availability issues throughout the year.
However, there has been no official confirmation that Dr. Iqbal’s departure was directly caused by injuries suffered by players. No public statement has linked the decision solely to the club’s medical record during the season.
Arsenal are now expected to begin the search for a replacement as preparations continue for the new campaign, with attention shifting toward strengthening support structures ahead of another demanding season.
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FELIX MAKONA
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