Confirmed Arsenal Team News Ahead of PSV Clash: Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and More | OneFootball

Arsenal Injury Update: Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli Latest News and Return Dates

Arsenal’s hopes of silverware this season have been hampered by injuries to key players, with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli among those sidelined. As Mikel Arteta’s side prepares for a crucial Champions League tie, the absence of these two attacking stars will be felt. With the Premier League title now looking increasingly out of reach, European success remains a major target.

Here’s the latest on Saka, Martinelli, and other Arsenal absentees.

Bukayo Saka’s Recovery Timeline

Saka, a vital component of Arsenal’s attack, has been recovering from a hamstring injury that required surgery in December. His absence has been keenly felt, with the England international’s ability to stretch defences and produce match-winning moments sorely missed.

Fans were given a glimmer of hope when the club released images of Saka training in the gym during a warm-weather camp in Dubai. However, caution remains the priority, and Arteta has made it clear there will be no rush to bring him back prematurely.

Photo IMAGO

“We have to be careful and make sure he is fully fit before he returns,” Arteta has previously stated. The Arsenal boss also confirmed that Saka will not return before the March international break, ruling him out of both legs of the Champions League round of 16 tie against PSV Eindhoven.

Potential return date: April 2025

Gabriel Martinelli’s Race Against Time

Martinelli, another integral part of Arsenal’s forward line, picked up a hamstring injury in last month’s Carabao Cup semi-final defeat to Newcastle. The Brazilian’s explosive pace and direct approach make him a nightmare for defenders, and his absence has been yet another blow to Arteta’s plans.

Arteta recently suggested that Martinelli could make a comeback before Saka but remained cautious:

“They’re evolving well, but they’re still a bit far,” he said. “We have a meeting tomorrow to discuss where they are, especially Gabi. He has probably a chance before Bukayo to come in, but how soon that is, we’ll have to see how it goes in the next week or ten days.”

Photo IMAGO

That timeline suggests that while Martinelli may return slightly earlier, he remains doubtful for the upcoming Champions League fixtures and could also miss key Premier League games.

Potential return date: April 2025

Other Arsenal Injury Concerns

Kai Havertz Sidelined for the Season

Another major setback for Arsenal came during their Dubai training camp, where Kai Havertz suffered a severe hamstring injury that required surgery. The German international confirmed on Instagram that the operation was a success:

“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. Thanks for all the messages of support over the last few days, it’s really helped. I’m now focused on my journey to full fitness and giving all the support I can give to the team in the background.”

Photo: IMAGO

His absence means Arteta will need to rely on alternative midfield and attacking combinations for the remainder of the campaign.

Potential return date: Summer 2025

Gabriel Jesus and Takehiro Tomiyasu Facing Uncertain Timelines

Gabriel Jesus, who suffered a serious knee injury in January, has undergone surgery and is facing an extended spell on the sidelines. The Brazilian striker’s return date remains unclear, adding to Arsenal’s attacking woes.

Meanwhile, Takehiro Tomiyasu has also been ruled out for the rest of the season following knee surgery. The Japan international has endured a frustrating campaign, managing just six minutes of action due to persistent fitness issues. He recently took to Instagram to express his determination to return:

“I’ve had a surgery on my knee a few days ago and I’ve already started my rehab to do what I love the most again. It has been the toughest period in my career for sure and it carries on a bit more but I won’t give up.”

Potential return dates: Jesus – Unknown, Tomiyasu – Unknown

Arsenal’s Road Ahead

With multiple first-team players sidelined, Arteta faces a tough challenge in keeping Arsenal’s season on track. The Gunners will need to navigate crucial Champions League fixtures and a demanding Premier League schedule without key stars like Saka, Martinelli, and Havertz.

As the season enters its final stretch, Arsenal will be hoping their injured players return sooner rather than later, with Saka and Martinelli’s eventual comeback set to provide a huge boost in the push for success.