Arsenal injury latest before Spurs: Calafiori and Odegaard doubts

Arsenal’s injury picture remains fluid despite William Saliba’s welcome return in the 4-0 FA Cup win over Wigan Athletic on 15 February 2026.

Saliba started and completed an hour, easing defensive concerns, but Mikel Arteta was left with two fresh doubts after Riccardo Calafiori withdrew before kick-off and Ben White limped off late on. Captain Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz are also being monitored ahead of a demanding run of fixtures.

Here is the latest Arsenal injury update and potential return dates.

Calafiori was initially named in the starting XI at left-back against Wigan but pulled out during the warm-up and was replaced by Bukayo Saka. It is the second time this season the Italian has dropped out pre-match, having done so ahead of the Brighton fixture in December.

Arteta confirmed after the game that both Calafiori and White were doubts, with further assessment required over the following 48 hours.

Potential return date: Unknown

White impressed on a rare start but went down with around 10 minutes remaining and was substituted. He later appeared relaxed on the bench and posted “No injuries” on social media, suggesting optimism.

However, Arteta struck a more cautious tone, indicating the situation still requires evaluation.

Potential return date: Unknown

Odegaard picked up a knee problem during the 1-1 draw at Brentford and was absent against Wigan. The Arsenal captain completed the match at the Gtech Community Stadium but was seen limping afterwards.

In the club programme, he described the issue as an overstretch that “pinched the knee” and expressed hope it was not serious. Arteta later confirmed he was not fit to feature in the cup tie.

Potential return date: Unknown

Havertz has been ruled out for a few weeks after suffering a muscular issue against Sunderland earlier this month. The forward had recently regained momentum following a serious knee injury and contributed two goals and two assists in his last four appearances before the setback.

He is expected to miss upcoming matches against Wolves and Tottenham.

Potential return date: 1 March 2026 vs Chelsea (H)

Merino is facing a lengthy absence after surgery on a stress fracture in his foot. Arsenal have described his return as a long-term process, with bone healing expected to take several months.

Arteta confirmed doctors are satisfied with early progress but emphasised patience will be required.

Potential return date: June 2026

There is more positive news regarding academy prospect Max Dowman. The 16-year-old has been out for two months with an ankle injury but is now close to returning.

Arteta recently indicated he could be about a week away from selection.

Potential return date: 22 February 2026 vs Tottenham (A)

Arsenal travel to Tottenham on 22 February 2026 for the north London derby, where defensive availability could prove decisive. Updates on Calafiori, White and Odegaard are expected in the coming days.

With Chelsea visiting on 1 March, squad depth will be tested if multiple first-team regulars remain sidelined.

Can Arsenal navigate these fresh setbacks without losing ground in the title race?