Henrikh Mkhitaryan could well be unable to play in Arsenal's visit to Qarabag in the Europa League, while he could also miss the final itself if the Gunners get there.
And it all stems from Mkhitaryan's nationality, as Armenians are not allowed to enter Azerbaijan because of the long-running conflict between the two countries.
Following today's group stage draw, Arsenal will be travelling to the nation when they play against Qarabag, who were in Chelsea's Champions League group last term.
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It's looking as though Arsenal will be without their No.7 for the away fixture, but there could be further complications later on the competition as the final is being held in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan.
As noted by Chris Wheatley of Goal, didn't travel to Azerbaijan three years back when Dortmund were paired in Gabala's Europa League group. Even though it looked like the issue might get sorted, BVB left him out due to concerns over his safety.
A solution found is unlikely, though UEFA did issue the following statement to the Press Association:
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"It is a standard procedure for UEFA to send letters of support to associations, clubs or embassies in order to obtain visas for players in order to be able to travel to another country and play in UEFA competition matches."
Last season, the 29-year old had to wear No.77 in UEFA's secondary club competition last season after arriving from Manchester United, due to Alexis Sanchez wearing No.7 in the group stage.
Sporting CP and Ukrainian outfit Vorskla are also in Group E along with Arsenal.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Football News, Football, Europa League, Azerbaijan, Arsenal
