Arsenal’s pursuit of the Premier League title and a deep Champions League run is being severely tested by a mounting injury crisis. Mikel Arteta’s squad, already reliant on a core group of key players, is now stretched thin at a critical juncture in the season. While injuries are an inevitable part of football, their timing and severity can be the difference between silverware and disappointment.
The Impact of Injuries on Arsenal’s Season
Arsenal’s squad depth has improved in recent years, but the team remains heavily reliant on a core group of players. The absence of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Gabriel Jesus has disrupted Arteta’s tactical approach and forced adjustments across multiple positions. With attacking firepower and defensive stability compromised, the Gunners face a critical test.
For those placing sports bets through platforms like online casinos ranked by Legalbet, keeping track of Arsenal’s injury list is vital, as the absence of key players can significantly influence match outcomes and betting odds.
Key injury concerns and expected return dates
Gabriel Martinelli
The Brazilian winger sustained a hamstring injury during Arsenal’s defeat to Newcastle. His blistering pace and dribbling ability have been central to Arteta’s attacking setup, and his absence deprives Arsenal of a direct goal threat.
Potential return date: March/April 2025
Bukayo Saka
Saka underwent hamstring surgery in December. While he travelled with the squad to Dubai for warm-weather training, his availability remains uncertain ahead of Arsenal’s Champions League last-16 tie. Arteta is reluctant to rush him back, wary of aggravating the injury and jeopardising the remainder of his season.
Potential return date: Early April
Kai Havertz
Havertz recently underwent surgery and will not play again this season. The German international had established himself as a versatile asset in Arsenal’s system, making his absence a major setback.
Potential return date: Out for the season
Takehiro Tomiyasu
The Japanese defender confirmed he has undergone surgery on a long-standing knee issue. Initially expected to return before the end of the campaign, the latest development means he will not return until the end of 2025. His absence denies Arteta an invaluable option across multiple defensive roles.
Potential return date: January 2026
Gabriel Jesus
Jesus suffered a serious knee injury in January and is not expected to return before the end of the campaign. His absence places added responsibility on Leandro Trossard to lead the line.
Potential return date: Late 2025
While injuries have disrupted Arsenal’s rhythm, Arteta must find solutions to keep the team competitive:
- Squad rotation: With Havertz, Jesus, and Martinelli sidelined, Leandro Trossard and others will need to step up. The ability of Martin Ødegaard and Declan Rice to contribute goals from midfield will also be crucial.
- Tactical adjustments: Without a full-strength squad, Arteta may lean towards a more controlled, possession-based approach rather than his preferred high-pressing game to conserve energy and limit the risk of further injuries.
- Youth opportunities: With key figures out, promising academy talents could be handed opportunities to prove themselves at the senior level.
Arsenal faces a daunting schedule before the international break, with Premier League fixtures against Nottingham Forest, Manchester United, Chelsea, and West Ham, alongside a crucial Champions League last-16 tie. The Gunners must navigate this run without several key players, relying on squad depth and tactical adaptability to remain in contention for silverware.
If Arsenal can weather this injury crisis, they will be well-positioned for a strong finish to the season. However, with multiple stars sidelined, Arteta’s ability to manage his depleted squad will be the defining factor in Arsenal’s title ambitions.