Arsenal injury update: Saka and Havertz latest

Arsenal injury update has taken on fresh urgency ahead of Sunday’s London derby against Chelsea, with Bukayo Saka emerging as a late concern following the 4-1 win over Tottenham.

The Gunners restored their five-point lead at the top of the Premier League with a dominant derby performance. Captain Martin Ødegaard returned from a knee issue to contribute, but Mikel Arteta must now assess a handful of fitness doubts before welcoming Chelsea to the Emirates Stadium on 1 March.

Saka limped off in stoppage time against Tottenham after an accidental clash with Xavi Simons while tracking back defensively.

The winger received treatment before being replaced by Noni Madueke. Arteta did not raise alarm in his post-match comments, and Saka was seen moving without obvious restriction afterwards.

At this stage, the knock is not believed to be serious, though he will be monitored during the week.

Potential return date: 1 March vs Chelsea (H)

Havertz has missed four consecutive matches due to a muscular problem sustained in the 3-0 win over Sunderland earlier this month.

Arteta admitted before the Spurs fixture that the German was close but not ready.

“We tried with Kai, it was too early unfortunately,” he said.

With a rare free midweek, Havertz now has additional recovery time. However, he must still be considered a doubt until he completes full training.

Potential return date: 1 March vs Chelsea (H)

Ben White was a surprise absentee from the squad against Tottenham. Arteta confirmed before kick-off that the defender had picked up a “little niggle” in training.

“It was Ben, he had a little niggle yesterday and he couldn't make the game,” the manager explained.

The issue is understood to be muscular rather than structural, suggesting a short-term problem if no further complications arise.

Potential return date: 1 March vs Chelsea (H)

Mikel Merino continues recovery from foot surgery following a stress fracture. Arsenal have indicated he is facing several months out, with Arteta previously stating bone healing requires patience.

“We're talking about months – three, four or five we don't know,” Arteta said.

A return before the end of the season remains the aim, though June appears a realistic window.

Potential return date: June 2026

Teenage prospect Max Dowman is closing in on a comeback after two months out with an ankle injury.

“He's doing really well, about a week away,” Arteta said recently.

Potential return date: 1 March vs Chelsea (H)

Arsenal host Chelsea on 1 March in a fixture that could influence the title race narrative. Arteta will assess Saka, Havertz and White during the week before finalising his squad. However, it remains too early to confirm availability until full training sessions are completed.

Can Arsenal maintain derby momentum and extend their advantage at the summit?