Arsenal’s injury crisis deepens as key players face setbacks at a pivotal stage in the season.
With squad depth already stretched, Arteta must find solutions fast.
Arsenal’s preparations for the crucial run-in have been dealt a significant blow this week, with Kai Havertz and Takehiro Tomiyasu both facing lengthy spells on the sidelines due to injury.
As the Gunners push for success on multiple fronts, these latest setbacks highlight the club’s ongoing struggle with fitness issues at key moments.
Havertz set for surgery
Havertz suffered a hamstring injury during a training session in Dubai last week, and after undergoing assessments, it was confirmed that he will require surgery.
While the exact timeline for his return remains uncertain, it is expected that his recovery will extend into pre-season preparations for next season.
Havertz’s absence leaves Mikel Arteta shorn of options in attack, particularly with Gabriel Jesus still managing his own knee problems and Bukayo Saka still making his way back from a similar hamstring injury.
Arsenal have faced significant fitness challenges all season, and losing an in-form player like Havertz at this stage could prove costly.
Tomiyasu’s injury nightmare continues
If losing Havertz wasn’t enough, Arsenal are also considering a second knee operation for Tomiyasu.
The Japan international has played just six minutes this season, having suffered multiple setbacks since undergoing knee surgery in March 2023.
Reports suggest the club fears another operation is necessary, which would effectively end his season.
With Tomiyasu being one of the most versatile defenders in Arteta’s squad—capable of covering right-back, left-back, and centre-back—his continued absence limits the manager’s tactical flexibility.
Tomiyasu and Jesus were the only two senior players not to travel to Dubai for the club’s warm-weather training camp.
Meanwhile, the likes of Bukayo Saka and Ben White were able to train, offering some relief to Arsenal’s injury-hit squad.