Arsenal injury update headlines are becoming all too familiar for Mikel Arteta as William Saliba, Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz join a growing list of absentees. The Gunners return to Premier League action next weekend against Nottingham Forest, but several stars remain in the treatment room.
Saliba’s ankle twist at Anfield, Saka’s latest hamstring setback and Havertz’s minor knee surgery have left Arsenal stretched at a key stage of the season. The north London club slipped to a 1-0 defeat against Liverpool just before the international break, and upcoming fixtures against Manchester City, Newcastle and a Champions League opener away to Athletic Club in Bilbao only raise the stakes further.
Arteta admitted last week that the situation is far from ideal: Saliba’s absence could run into October, Saka is in a race to be fit for the clash with City, while Havertz faces “many, many weeks” on the sidelines. For a side targeting a genuine title push, the timing could hardly be worse.
Can Arsenal maintain their momentum without three of their most influential players? That’s the pressing question as September’s high-stakes schedule approaches.
Why Saliba’s Absence Could Cost Arsenal Dear
William Saliba has become the heartbeat of Arsenal’s defence. His ankle injury in the warm-up at Anfield, followed by an early withdrawal after just five minutes, sent shockwaves through the fanbase. French outlet L’Equipe reported he could miss three to four weeks — potentially ruling him out of as many as seven fixtures.
Arsenal’s defensive depth looks vulnerable, even with summer signing Cristhian Mosquera stepping in admirably. Losing Saliba against Manchester City or in Bilbao could expose Arteta’s backline at the worst possible time.
Saka’s Hamstring Woes Return
Bukayo Saka’s repeated hamstring problems are a huge concern. Forced off against Leeds with a left hamstring tear, just months after surgery on the right, the England star has once again been sidelined.
Arteta insisted Saka will be out for only “a few weeks,” but with a home fixture against City looming on 21 September, Arsenal are desperate for his recovery to accelerate. Without Saka’s pace and creativity on the right, Arsenal’s attacking play loses balance, as shown in the lacklustre defeat at Anfield.
“Recurring hamstring injuries are something we have to manage very carefully with Bukayo. We can’t afford to rush him back.” — Mikel Arteta
Havertz Faces Weeks Out After Surgery
Kai Havertz underwent minor knee surgery after the Manchester United match. Although Arsenal were optimistic, Arteta later admitted he could miss “many, many weeks.”
Havertz’s absence not only limits midfield options but also takes away one of the few versatile attackers who can slot across the front line. After missing much of last season with a hamstring tear, his injury record is becoming a major worry.
Arsenal Injury Stats 2024/25
| Stat (2024/25) | William Saliba | Bukayo Saka | Kai Havertz |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearances | 2 | 3 | 2 |
| Goals | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Assists | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Pass Accuracy | 90% | 85% | 82% |
source: sofascore match data – 8 September 2025
Saliba and Saka’s early contributions underline just how vital they are to Arsenal’s system. Without them, Arteta loses both defensive solidity and attacking thrust.
Analyst Verdict
According to FootballPlace analyst John William, Arsenal are facing a pivotal test of squad depth:
“Arsenal’s tactical balance depends heavily on Saliba’s calm presence in defence and Saka’s direct threat out wide. Havertz’s absence also reduces rotation flexibility in midfield. If all three remain out, Arteta will need to lean on younger talents like Mosquera and Emile Smith Rowe to maintain tempo.”
He adds: “The next month could define Arsenal’s season. Drop points against City and Newcastle, and their title push may already look fragile.”
Key Insights
- Saliba’s ankle injury could sideline him until October.
- Saka’s hamstring problem may ease by late September.
- Havertz faces a lengthy absence after knee surgery.
- Arsenal’s depth will be tested against City, Newcastle and Bilbao.
- Arteta must rotate carefully to avoid further breakdowns.
What’s Next for Arsenal?
Ben White could return against Nottingham Forest, offering some relief at the back, while Christian Norgaard may finally make his Arsenal debut. Gabriel Jesus is back in training but unlikely to feature until October or November.
The Forest game is crucial: drop points at home and pressure mounts before hosting City. With the Champions League opener at Bilbao and a Carabao Cup clash against Port Vale also on the horizon, Arteta must navigate a tricky period without his stars.
👉 Should Arsenal risk Saka and Saliba earlier than planned — or prioritise long-term fitness even if it costs points now?
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