Hincapié sustained the problem around Arsenal’s 2-1 Premier League victory over Leeds United on 10 October. The defender and midfielder Martín Zubimendi both suffered ankle injuries during the post-match warm-down, leaving Arteta waiting for further information on their recovery.
The Arsenal manager initially offered encouragement over Hincapié’s progress, praising the defender’s determination and suggesting that his mentality would help him return as soon as possible.
“Piero Hincapié is making really good progress. Knowing his mentality and how he is always pushing everyone around him, I’m sure it won’t be long before he is back,” Arteta said in the earlier update.
“I think, though, that he will probably need another week or two.”
Arteta also expressed hope that the defender might be available before the next international break, while stressing that the situation would need to be monitored.
However, the latest update, delivered ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League fixture against Nottingham Forest, confirmed that Hincapié was not yet fit to return. Arteta said the defender would remain out, meaning the earlier estimate should not be treated as a confirmed comeback date.
The absence is an interruption for a player Arsenal have been integrating into their defensive options. Hincapié’s ability to operate across the back line gives Arteta flexibility, but the priority will be ensuring that the defender is fully recovered before he resumes competitive action.
Arsenal have other fitness concerns to manage, with Zubimendi also affected by the injuries sustained after the Leeds match. Arteta will need to assess his available options as the club navigate their domestic and European schedule.
For Hincapié, the immediate objective is to complete his recovery without rushing back prematurely. The manager’s praise for his work ethic remains encouraging, but the latest information provides no firm date for his return.
The difference between the earlier estimate and the subsequent update means Arsenal supporters should wait for further confirmation before expecting the defender to be available for a specific fixture.