A season of high expectations for Arsenal has so far been dampened by injuries, but the Gunners are heading into a new calendar year well.
Martin Odegaard’s ankle issue eased a difficult autumn and Bukayo Saka’s The hamstring tear has many supporters criticizing the club’s chances in the second half of the season. Having struggled to adjust to his captain’s absence earlier this year, by Mikel Arteta Coaching will be crucial amid star Saka’s recovery.
Life without their talisman began with a 1-0 win over Ipswich on Friday night, with a trip to Bradford on New Year’s Day thereafter for the title contenders.
Here’s the latest Arsenal injury news ahead of their maiden fixture in 2025.
Arsenal have had problems at full-back all season, with Jurrien Timber, Riccardo Calafiori and Oleksandr Zinchenko all missing time due to injuries.
Thomas Partey has been used at right-back at times as a result, with Timber returning as the undisputed starter. However, the Dutchman’s workload will be lightened for once Ben White is recovering from minor ankle surgery he underwent during the November international break.
White has been out for about six weeks and there is no timetable yet for his return. Updates on his recovery have been few and far between.
Takehiro Tomiiyasu can provide cover across Arsenal’s backline, but the Japan international has made just one appearance all season due to a recurring knee injury. He has suffered many setbacks in his recovery and it is not yet known when he will be fit and available again.
The mood has soured in north London as a result of Saka Torn hamstring in the 5-1 win over Crystal Palace before Christmas.
The winger has since undergone surgery with Arteta suggesting he will be out for more than two months. It’s a devastating blow – made worse by Raheem Sterling’s knee injury.
Sterling has hardly featured since joining the club on loan but would undoubtedly be a handy option with Saka out. The experienced player could return at some point in January, but Arteta is currently relying on the likes of Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Jesus to ease Xhaka’s absence.
|
Player |
Damage |
Situation |
|---|---|---|
|
Bucayo Saka |
Hamstring |
Out |
|
Raheem Sterling |
Knee |
Out |
|
Ben White |
Groin |
Out |
|
Takehiro Tomiiyasu |
Knee |
Out |
