Arsenal await key player recoveries with season-defining games ahead | OneFootball

Arsenal Injury Update: Saka, Martinelli and Havertz Fitness Concerns

Arsenal’s title charge is being tested not just by the competition but by a mounting injury list that threatens to derail their momentum. With crucial fixtures ahead, Mikel Arteta is working with a depleted squad, particularly in attack, where key absentees are limiting his tactical options.

A 2-0 victory over Leicester at the weekend provided a much-needed boost, with Mikel Merino stepping up to fill the void. However, as Arsenal prepare for their upcoming Premier League clashes against West Ham and Nottingham Forest, the focus remains on how soon their sidelined stars can return.

Photo: IMAGO

Saka’s Recovery Gains Momentum

Bukayo Saka has been a glaring omission from Arsenal’s frontline since suffering a hamstring tear in December. The initial prognosis ruled him out until March, and while images of him training in Dubai last week raised hopes of an early return, Arteta remains cautious.

“I don’t know, we have a long-term injury, so what is faster?” Arteta said when asked about a possible early return. “In a 10-day injury, three days is a lot because it’s 30 per cent, but in three months, a week is probably not that much.”

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The winger remains in the early stages of rehabilitation, and Arsenal are expected to target his return for either their Champions League last-16 tie on March 4 or 5, or the high-stakes clash against Manchester United on March 9. However, with Saka’s importance to the team, Arteta will not be tempted into unnecessary risks.

Potential return date: March 2025

Martinelli Facing Lengthy Spell Out

Gabriel Martinelli added to Arsenal’s injury woes when he limped off in the 37th minute against Newcastle on February 5, clutching his hamstring. The Brazilian’s dynamic presence on the wing has been instrumental for Arteta’s side, making his absence a significant blow.

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Martinelli is expected to be out for around a month, meaning he will miss the upcoming fixtures against West Ham and Nottingham Forest. His availability for Arsenal’s Champions League last-16 first leg, as well as crucial league meetings with Manchester United and Chelsea, remains in doubt.

Potential return date: March 2025

Havertz Ruled Out for the Season

Kai Havertz’s campaign has been abruptly ended by a hamstring injury sustained while blocking a shot in training during Arsenal’s warm-weather camp in Dubai. The German international has since undergone surgery, ruling him out until next season.

Photo: IMAGO

In a post from his hospital bed, Havertz shared his disappointment but expressed determination to return stronger.

“The last few days have been tough to process both physically and mentally. But yesterday was a good day. A successful op and a win,” he wrote. “I’m now focused on my journey to full fitness and giving all the support I can give to the team in the background.”

Potential return date: Start of 2025-26 season

Concerns Over Tomiyasu’s Fitness

Takehiro Tomiyasu’s ongoing knee problems continue to frustrate Arsenal’s medical team. The Japanese defender has featured for just six minutes this season after briefly returning against Southampton in October.

Photo: IMAGO

Given the persistent nature of his injury, Arsenal are now considering the possibility of a second knee operation. If surgery is required, it will almost certainly rule him out for the rest of the campaign.

Potential return date: Unknown

Jesus’ Return Timeline Unclear

Gabriel Jesus remains a long-term absentee following knee surgery in January. The Brazilian forward has been sorely missed, and no definitive timeframe has been given for his return. While Arsenal have coped without him, his presence would be a major boost as they approach the business end of the season.

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Potential return date: Unknown

Squad Depth Will Be Tested

With key players out for the foreseeable future, Arteta must find solutions to maintain Arsenal’s challenge at the top of the table. As they navigate through crucial Premier League and European fixtures, the focus will be on managing these injuries carefully while ensuring the squad remains competitive.

Arsenal’s hopes of catching Liverpool in the title race may well hinge on how quickly their sidelined stars can return. Until then, Arteta will need his squad to step up, just as they did against Leicester.