Arsenal injury update: Saka, Ødegaard and Timber latest fitness news

Arsenal head into Saturday’s Premier League clash with Sunderland carrying several injury concerns, with Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard and Jurrien Timber all under close monitoring as Mikel Arteta manages his squad through a demanding run-in.

The Gunners were without both Saka and Ødegaard for the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg win over Chelsea, while a new worry has emerged over Timber after the defender missed training this week.

Arsenal’s injury list had begun to clear in recent weeks, but fresh setbacks have arrived at a delicate point in the season. Arteta’s side remain alive in four competitions and have already booked a Carabao Cup final date at Wembley on 22 March.

Before then, however, Arsenal face a potentially awkward league assignment against a confident Sunderland side, making player availability a key focus in the build-up.

Saka was withdrawn from the starting XI moments before kick-off against Leeds after suffering a muscle issue during the warm-up. Arteta later described it as a “little niggle” and confirmed scans showed no serious damage.

The winger missed both legs of the Carabao Cup semi-final and remains sidelined, with Arsenal taking a cautious approach given his importance. Reports suggest Saka is targeting a return for the north London derby away to Tottenham.

Arteta recently said: “He’s okay, we need to have more tests to understand how he is. This game was too short. Let’s hope it’s not too much.”

Potential return date: Sunday 22 February, vs Tottenham (A)

Ødegaard’s absence against Chelsea came as a surprise after he had been named on the bench at Leeds and impressed in a cameo appearance. Arteta later revealed the captain felt discomfort during the Leeds match and was unable to train comfortably ahead of the semi-final.

There is optimism that the issue is minor, and Ødegaard remains a strong candidate to return for the Sunderland game.

Arteta explained: “During the game against Leeds, he felt a little niggle. We tried yesterday, he wasn’t comfortable. So let’s see if he’s available for the weekend.”

Potential return date: Saturday 7 February, vs Sunderland (H)

Timber has emerged as a fresh concern after missing training on Thursday. The defender completed the full 90 minutes against Chelsea but did not take part in the session ahead of the Sunderland fixture.

With 35 appearances already this season, Timber has been a key figure in Arsenal’s defensive stability. Arteta is expected to provide clarity in his pre-match press conference on Friday.

Potential return date: Unknown

Merino faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after Arsenal confirmed he will undergo surgery on a rare foot injury. Arteta has described the issue as a “big blow”, noting the midfielder’s versatility and importance.

The club have stated Merino is expected to return to full training before the end of the season, though recovery timelines remain uncertain due to the nature of the injury.

Potential return date: Unknown

Teenage prospect Max Dowman has been out since suffering ankle ligament damage while playing for the Under-21s last month. Arteta has confirmed the youngster is back on the pitch and progressing well, though Arsenal remain cautious due to his age and schooling commitments.

Potential return date: February

Arteta will provide further updates in his pre-match press conference on Friday as Arsenal finalise preparations for Sunderland. With a packed fixture list ahead and major trophies still in play, managing minutes and fitness will be central to maintaining momentum.

Can Arsenal’s squad depth continue to deliver results while key players recover, or will injuries begin to slow their quadruple push?