Mkhitaryan could miss Arsenal's Europa League tie over political tensions

Armenia's long-standing dispute with Azerbaijan could force Armenia international Henrikh Mkhitaryan to miss Arsenal's Europa League trip to take on Qarabag in the Azerbaijani capital of Baku.

Tensions between the nations have been ongoing over the territory of Nagorno-Karabakh, which has resulted in both countries refusing to recognize each other diplomatically. Azerbaijan has also banned Armenian citizens from entering the country.

Mkhitaryan may be left out of the matchday squad for security reasons, according to Paul MacInnes and Dominic Fifield of the Guardian. However, it's understood that the 29-year-old would be issued a visa if Arsenal allows him to travel.

The midfielder could also miss the final should Arsenal advance to the title match, which will be hosted in the Azerbaijani capital.

Mkhitaryan faced a similar situation in 2015 when he was a member of Borussia Dortmund. He was granted access into Azerbaijan, but the Bundesliga team opted to leave him behind due to security concerns.

Along with Qarabag, Arsenal was also paired with Sporting CP and FC Vorskla in Group E. The Europa League group stage will kick off Sept. 20.