Shock for Arsenal Ex-Player: Hospitalized After Terrifying Collision (vid)

Former Arsenal midfielder Francis Coquelin was taken to the hospital following a "very serious" head injury sustained during a Ligue 2 match between Laval and Nantes. The 35-year-old player collided with Nantes' Willy Younoussa just minutes into the game, resulting in both players being stretchered off the field.

Coquelin, who had recently returned to Laval, his former club, was conscious during his transfer to the hospital. Medical staff immediately attended to the players after the forceful collision. Doctors conducted examinations, including a CT scan, due to concerns about a potential fracture to his eye socket.

Laval's coach, David Guion, described the injury as severe and anticipates Coquelin will be sidelined for a considerable time. The incident occurred during Coquelin's second appearance for Laval since rejoining the team this summer. He previously played for Arsenal for 160 matches, winning two FA Cups, and also had spells with Valencia and Villarreal, winning the Europa League with the latter.

Despite Coquelin's injury, Laval secured a 2-1 victory over Nantes with a late goal. The match marked Younoussa's official debut for Nantes.

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Francis Coquelin after a very big head collision. Nantes' Younoussa, also in his first official match with Nantes, also had to leave on a stretcher.