Mikel Arteta has already been hit with multiple injury concerns just three games into the new Premier League season. Victories over Manchester United and Leeds came at a cost, with several players sidelined. William Saliba became the latest casualty after limping off early against Liverpool at Anfield, adding to Arsenal’s growing list of absentees.
Bukayo Saka also missed the clash at Anfield, having suffered a hamstring problem in the win over Leeds the previous week. Meanwhile, Martin Ødegaard was briefly a concern after being withdrawn against Leeds, though he has since returned. Kai Havertz, however, has not been as fortunate and required minor surgery on an issue picked up earlier in the campaign.
Ben White and Christian Nørgaard have also been unavailable with minor knocks, though both are expected to return once the international break concludes. Below is the latest on Arsenal’s injury situation.
Bukayo Saka
Saka missed the 1-0 defeat to Liverpool after pulling up with a hamstring injury against Leeds. He has not been included in England’s squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. While a return later in September has not been ruled out, October appears more realistic.
What Arteta said:
“Bukayo is doing better, but he will be out for a few weeks. No surgery is needed. It’s not as bad as before, but very unfortunate. He pushed at full power, changed direction, and felt something.”
Possible return date: Late September or early October.
William Saliba
Saliba lasted just five minutes against Liverpool before being forced off. France later confirmed he would miss international duty due to a sprained left ankle. Recovery timelines for such injuries vary widely, so his return date remains unclear.
What Arteta said:
“He twisted his ankle in the warm-up. He thought he could carry on, but in the first few actions it was obvious he couldn’t cope, so we had to take him off.”
Possible return date: Unknown.
Kai Havertz
Arsenal confirmed that Havertz underwent minor surgery after picking up an injury against Manchester United. Although Arteta did not provide a precise timeframe, he hinted the German could be missing for weeks rather than months.
What Arteta said:
“It’s very unfortunate and sad for him. He has never had injuries before, and suddenly this happens. The doctors felt surgery was the best option, and hopefully he will return in good condition.”
Possible return date: Unknown.
Martin Ødegaard
The Arsenal captain was not fit enough to start against Liverpool but came off the bench for the final 20 minutes. His issue seems minor.
What Arteta said:
“Martin felt something in his shoulder when he landed. We’ll scan him to be sure.”
Possible return date: Already returned.
Ben White
White has missed Arsenal’s last two league matches but is expected back after the international break.
What Arteta said:
“With Ben, let’s see…”
Possible return date: Nottingham Forest
Christian Nørgaard
The new signing is still awaiting his competitive debut after being sidelined for almost a month. Arteta expects him to return soon after the break.
What Arteta said:
“Christian won’t be in the squad against Leeds. He’ll be out for another week or so.”
Possible return date: Nottingham Forest
Gabriel Jesus
The Brazilian forward continues his recovery from a serious knee injury sustained in January. Arsenal have left him out of their Champions League squad, suggesting his absence could stretch well into 2026.
Possible return date: Late 2025 or early 2026.
