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Arsenal injury udpates

William Saliba injured vs Liverpool

Arsenal’s bad luck with injuries continued with William Saliba taken off just minutes into Arsenal’s game against Liverpool.

The defender seemed to pick up the problem when Hugo Ekitike backed into him and could be seen limping but tried to play of. However, it turns out he went into the game with the issue after twisting his ankle in the warm up.

Arsenal injury updates - LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - AUGUST 31: William Saliba of Arsenal reacts with an injury during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Arsenal at Anfield on August 31, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images

Before five minutes was on the clock, however, he was replaced by Cristhian Mosquera.

Other injury news

Bukayo Saka pulled up in the second half of the game vs Leeds, holding his left hamstring and was substituted for Leandro Trossard. The issue is worrying given his history with his right hamstring, which kept him out for months last season, however it looks like he is only likely to be out until after the international break.

Kai Havertz faces a spell on the sidelines after minor surgery on a knee injury sustained at Old Trafford. Early fears of an ACL rupture have been dismissed, but the Germany international is still expected to miss at least several weeks, with reports suggesting an absence of around two months. Arteta told reporters: “I think it will be weeks, but I don’t know how many months.

Gabriel Jesus, Ben White, and Christian Nørgaard are also sidelined.

Arsenal injury updates – table

Who is currently injured for Arsenal?

PlayerInjury TypeStatusAnticipated Return
Gabriel JesusACL ruptureTraining individually on grassNov 2025
Christian Norgaard‘little medical issue’Pre-Leeds, Arteta said he would be back in ‘a week or so’ but he has been left out of the Denmark squadafter international break
Ben WhiteUnknownWithdrawn early v United 17/08/25, absent from training 20/08/25Possibly v Liverpool (31/08/25)
Kai HavertzKnee injury‘Set for a spell on the sidelines’Unknown
Bukayo SakaLeft hamstringInjured v Leeds, in recoveryv Newcastle (28/09/25) or West Ham (4/10/25)
William SalibaTwisted ankleInjured in the warm up pre-Liverpool but thought he was fine to play. He was notUnknown

Arsenal suspended

Men

Women


Arsenal injury updates – women

PlayerInjury TypeStatus (as of July 2025)Anticipated Return
Lia WaltiAbscessOut, post-surgeryOct 2025
Leah WilliamsonKneePicked up in Euro final, recovering from ‘minor procedureOct/Nov 2025
Jessie GaleKnockIn trainingunclear
Stina BlacksteniusKnockHas missed Arsenal’s friendlies against Spurs and West Hamunclear

The five most common injuries in football are:

LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 07: Declan Rice of Arsenal is injured during the pre-season friendly match between Arsenal and Bayer 04 Leverkusen at Emirates Stadium on August 07, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)
Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images
  1. Hamstring strains – Caused by overstretching or tearing the muscles in the back of the thigh, often due to sprinting or sudden acceleration.
  2. Ankle sprains – Occur when the ligaments around the ankle are overstretched or torn, usually from awkward landings or sudden changes in direction.
  3. Groin strains – Result from overstretching or tearing the muscles in the groin area, often due to kicking, sprinting, or sudden movements.
  4. Knee injuries (ACL tears) – Involves damage to the anterior cruciate ligament, typically caused by sudden stops or changes in direction, or landing awkwardly.
  5. Calf strains – Involve the overstretching or tearing of the calf muscles, often due to sprinting, jumping, or repetitive movements.

These injuries are common due to the physical demands, rapid movements, and contact involved in football.

Arsenal injury updates – Common injuries and recovery times

InjuryMinorModerateSevere
Ankle & Foot injuriesAchilles tendonitis6 weeks3 months6 months +
Ankle sprain2-3 weeks4-6 weeks6-8 weeks
Calf muscle strain1-2 weeks3-4 weeks6-8 weeks
Fracture dislocation of ankle joint 6 months +
Os Trigonum Syndrome (floating bone in back of ankle) 3-4 weeks6-8 weeks
Plantar fascitis2-3 weeks4-6 weeks2 months +
Knee & Leg injuriesAnterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) 4-6 months
Calf muscle strain1-2 weeks3-4 weeks6-8 weeks
Cartilage Tear (meniscal tear)2-4 weeks4-6 weeks2 months +
Hamstring strain1-2 weeks3-4 weeks6-8 weeks
Lateral Collateral Ligament Sprain2-3 weeks4-6 weeks3 months
Medial Collateral Ligament Sprain2-4 weeks4-8 weeks3 months
Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) 3-5 months
Patella tendonitis6 weeks3 months6 months +
Posterior Cruciate Ligament4-6 weeks6-8 weeks3-4 months
Thigh strain (Quadriceps strain)1-2 weeks3-4 weeks6-8 weeks
Tibia & Fibula Fractures 4-6 months +
Hip & Groin injuriesAbdominal strain (stomach muscle strain)1-2 weeks3-4 weeks6-8 weeks
Avulsion fracture pelvis 8 weeks
Groin strain (Adductor strain)1-2 weeks3-4 weeks6-8 weeks
Hip flexor strain1-2 weeks3-4 weeks6-8 weeks
Hernia 8 weeks post-op
Iliopsoas Syndrome1-2 weeks3-4 weeks6-8 weeks
Lower Back injuriesFacet syndrome2-3 weeks3-4 weeks4 weeks +
Sciatica3-4 weeks4-6 weeks2 months
Spondylolysis (stress fracture) 2-3 months
Slipped disc3-4 weeks4-6 weeks2 months
Elbow, wrist & hand injuriesDislocated finger (Mallet finger) 2-3 weeks*GK 8-10 weeks
Elbow fracture 10-12 weeks
Golfer’s elbow1 week3 weeks6 weeks +
Tennis elbow1 week3 weeks6 weeks +
Metacarpal fractures (hand fractures) 2-3 weeks*GK 8-10 weeks
Wrist fractures (Colles and Scaphoid) 6-8 weeks
Shoulder injuriesAcromio Clavicular (AC) joint sprain1 week4 weeks6-8 weeks
Dislocated shoulder 6-8 weeks
Fractured collar bone 6-8 weeks
Fractured humerus 6-8 weeks
Rotator cuff (muscle problems)2 weeks4-6 weeks8-12 weeks
Ruptured biceps tendon 12 weeks
Subacromial bursitis1 week2-3 weeks6 weeks
Neck injuriesCervical disc prolapse (Slipped disc) 6 weeks +
Whiplash1-2 days5-7 days2 weeks
Data source

Arsenal injury updates – Hamstring injuries

Scotland's Kieran Tierney reacts on a stretcher as he leaves the game injured during the UEFA Euro 2024 Group A football match between Scotland and Switzerland at the Cologne Stadium in Cologne on June 19, 2024. (Photo by ANGELOS TZORTZINIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Photo by ANGELOS TZORTZINIS/AFP via Getty Images

Hamstring injuries are classified into three grades based on their severity. These grades help medical professionals determine the extent of the injury and guide appropriate treatment and rehabilitation plans.

Grade 1 (Mild): A Grade 1 hamstring injury is a minor strain or pull, with only a few muscle fibres affected. There is usually mild pain and discomfort but no significant loss of strength or function. Recovery time for a Grade 1 injury is typically between 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the individual and the specific injury.

Arsenal injury updates – Ankle sprains

Santi Cazorla's ankle. Picture: Pablo García/MARCA
Santi Cazorla’s ankle. Picture: Pablo García/MARCA

Ankle sprains are one of the most frequent injuries in football and occur when the ligaments that support the ankle joint are overstretched or torn. Ligaments are bands of tissue that connect bones and help stabilise joints. In the case of an ankle sprain, the ligaments around the ankle are damaged, usually due to an awkward landing, twisting motion, or sudden change in direction, which can be common during football matches where players frequently pivot, jump, or collide with others.

Causes of Ankle Sprains:

Severity of Ankle Sprains:

Ankle sprains are classified into three grades depending on the extent of the ligament damage:

Symptoms:

Treatment and Recovery:

Treatment for ankle sprains follows the R.I.C.E. principle:

In more severe cases, medical intervention such as physiotherapy or, rarely, surgery might be required. Recovery time varies depending on the severity:

Ankle sprains can be particularly challenging for footballers as they may lead to chronic instability or repeated injuries if not fully rehabilitated, impacting performance and long-term mobility. Strengthening exercises and proper rehabilitation are crucial for ensuring a complete recovery and preventing future sprains.

Arsenal injury updates – Groin Strains in Football

LONDON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 03: Takehiro Tomiyasu of Arsenal reacts while leaving the pitch injured during the UEFA Europa League group A match between Arsenal FC and FC Zürich at Emirates Stadium on November 03, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images

Groin strains are a common injury in football, especially due to the rapid and intense movements involved in the game. A groin strain occurs when the muscles of the inner thigh (adductors) are overstretched or torn. These muscles are crucial for controlling the movements of the legs, particularly in actions such as kicking, sprinting, and changing direction. A groin strain can significantly impact a player’s ability to perform these actions, making it a frequent issue in football.

Causes of Groin Strains:

Severity of Groin Strains:

Groin strains are classified into three grades depending on the extent of muscle damage:

Symptoms:

Treatment and Recovery:

Treatment for groin strains typically follows the R.I.C.E. method, similar to other muscle strains:

In more severe cases, physical therapy may be necessary to strengthen the groin muscles and regain full mobility. Gradual rehabilitation exercises will focus on improving flexibility, strengthening the muscles, and preventing future injuries.

Recovery Time:

Prevention:

Conclusion:

Groin strains are a significant risk for football players due to the frequent lateral movements, sprinting, and kicking involved in the sport. While most strains heal with rest and proper rehabilitation, players need to take preventive measures such as warming up thoroughly, stretching, and strengthening the groin muscles to minimise the chances of recurrence. Full recovery is essential to prevent long-term issues and to return to peak performance.

Arsenal injury updates – Knee Injuries (ACL Tears) in Football

LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 04: The injured Theo Walcott of Arsenal makes a 2-0 gesture to the Tottenham fans as he is stretchered off the pitch during the Budweiser FA Cup third round match between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur at Emirates Stadium on January 4, 2014 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears are among the most serious injuries in football, often sidelining players for months and requiring surgery. The ACL is one of the four main ligaments in the knee, responsible for stabilising the joint during twisting, turning, and pivoting movements—actions frequently performed during football matches. When the ACL is overstretched or torn, it leads to significant instability in the knee, often making it impossible to continue playing until recovery is complete.

Causes of ACL Tears:

Severity of ACL Tears:

Symptoms:

Treatment and Recovery:

Treatment for an ACL tear depends on the severity of the injury and the athlete’s needs, particularly in sports like football where knee stability is crucial.

Recovery Time:

Rehabilitation:

Rehabilitation following an ACL tear is an extensive process aimed at restoring full knee functionality and preventing future injuries. A typical rehabilitation program includes:

Prevention:

Preventing ACL injuries in football involves a combination of strengthening, conditioning, and proper technique training:

Conclusion:

An ACL tear is one of the most devastating injuries a football player can face. It not only causes severe pain and instability but also requires a lengthy recovery process, often involving surgery and months of rehabilitation. While some athletes recover fully and return to their previous levels of play, ACL injuries can significantly impact a player’s career. Prevention, including strength and conditioning work, proper technique, and warm-up routines, is essential in reducing the likelihood of this injury.

Arsenal injury updates – Calf Strains in Football

Oleksandr Zinchenko returns to training (via Arsenal.com)
Oleksandr Zinchenko returns to training (via Arsenal.com)

Calf strains are a frequent injury in football, particularly among players who engage in sprinting, jumping, or quick directional changes. The calf muscles, located at the back of the lower leg, play a crucial role in these movements. A calf strain occurs when the muscle fibers are overstretched or torn, leading to pain and limited mobility. These injuries can range from mild discomfort to severe tears that may take weeks or months to heal.

Causes of Calf Strains:

Severity of Calf Strains:

Calf strains are classified into three grades depending on the severity of the injury:

Symptoms:

Treatment and Recovery:

The treatment of calf strains depends on the severity but generally follows the R.I.C.E. principle:

In more severe cases, physical therapy may be required to restore strength and flexibility in the calf muscles. Rehabilitation typically includes:

Recovery Time:

Prevention:

Conclusion:

Calf strains, while often considered minor injuries, can be debilitating for football players due to the importance of the calf muscles in running, jumping, and directional changes. Early detection, rest, and proper rehabilitation are crucial for ensuring a full recovery and preventing long-term issues. Taking preventive measures, such as warming up, strengthening, and maintaining flexibility, is key to avoiding calf strains in the future.

Why muscular and niggly injuries are common after a player returns from an ACL or serious injury

When a footballer returns to the pitch after being sidelined with an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury or any other serious setback, it’s often seen as a triumph of determination and medical rehabilitation. However, it’s not uncommon for these athletes to experience a series of muscular or niggly injuries shortly after their return. This is an unfortunate yet frequent occurrence, and it can be incredibly frustrating for both the player and the club. Here’s why these secondary injuries are so common after an extended period on the sidelines.

1. Muscle atrophy and imbalances

During the rehabilitation period following an ACL injury, players often experience significant muscle atrophy, especially in the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles of the injured leg. This weakening occurs because the muscles aren’t being used in the same way as they were before the injury. Even with extensive physiotherapy and strength training, it’s challenging to fully restore the muscles to their pre-injury condition. When the player returns to high-intensity action, the imbalance between the stronger and weaker muscles can lead to strains, tears, and other niggling issues as the body readjusts to the demands of competitive football.

2. Altered movement patterns and compensation

After an ACL injury or another serious setback, players often unconsciously alter their movement patterns to protect the previously injured area. This compensation means they might favour the uninjured leg, placing extra stress on different muscles and joints. These altered biomechanics can lead to overuse injuries in other parts of the body, such as the hips, lower back, or the hamstring of the non-injured leg. This compensatory behaviour can be difficult to correct, even with targeted rehabilitation, making players prone to muscle injuries as they try to perform at their previous intensity.

3. Deconditioning and reduced neuromuscular control

No matter how comprehensive the rehabilitation programme, players returning from a long-term injury often suffer from some level of deconditioning. This refers to the loss of fitness, strength, and endurance that naturally occurs when an athlete isn’t training or competing at their usual level. In addition to deconditioning, there’s often a decline in neuromuscular control, which is the body’s ability to effectively coordinate muscle movements. As a result, returning players may struggle with their coordination and reaction times, increasing the risk of muscular injuries during the unpredictable and dynamic movements of football.

4. Psychological factors and the rush to return

The mental aspect of returning from a serious injury cannot be overlooked. Players are often eager to prove themselves, and there can be external pressures from the club, fans, or even their own expectations to return to peak performance quickly. This urgency can lead to overexertion, with players pushing themselves too hard, too soon. This increased intensity can place undue stress on muscles that aren’t fully conditioned for match play, leading to the onset of muscular strains, niggles, or even more serious injuries.

5. Mismatch between rehabilitation and match demands

While rehabilitation programmes for ACL and serious injuries are highly specialised, they cannot fully replicate the unpredictable nature and demands of competitive football. During rehab, exercises are controlled and predictable, whereas matches involve rapid changes in direction, unexpected collisions, and high-intensity sprints. This mismatch can expose weaknesses or vulnerabilities that weren’t evident during rehabilitation, resulting in minor muscular injuries as the player’s body tries to adapt to the rigours of competitive play once again.

6. Overuse and fatigue

A player returning to action after a long injury layoff is often immediately thrust into a demanding schedule, especially if they’re a key member of the squad. The sudden increase in physical activity can lead to fatigue, making muscles more susceptible to strains and sprains. Fatigued muscles have less ability to absorb impact or respond quickly, increasing the likelihood of niggly injuries during matches or training sessions.

How to mitigate muscular and niggly injuries post-ACL recovery

To reduce the risk of these secondary injuries, clubs and players must adopt a gradual and well-monitored approach to reintroducing players into competitive action. This includes:

Conclusion

Muscular and niggly injuries following a return from an ACL or serious injury are common due to a combination of physical, psychological, and biomechanical factors. The process of regaining full fitness and adapting to the demands of high-level football takes time, and the journey is rarely straightforward. By understanding these challenges, players, coaches, and medical staff can work together to reduce the risk of further setbacks, ensuring a safer and more successful return to the pitch.