Report: Arsenal’s squad depth tested as injuries pile up | OneFootball

Arsenal Face Attacking Crisis as Key Players Remain Sidelined

Mikel Arteta’s frustrations are mounting as Arsenal’s attacking options continue to dwindle. The Gunners’ recent 1-0 defeat to West Ham was a damaging blow to their Premier League title ambitions, with Liverpool stretching their lead at the top. But beyond the result, the real concern lies in the growing injury list that has left Arsenal stretched thin in key areas.

With Myles Lewis-Skelly now suspended following his red card against the Hammers, Arsenal’s squad depth will be tested even further as they prepare for a crucial clash against Nottingham Forest. While defensive options remain relatively strong, the frontline is looking increasingly bare, with no immediate relief in sight.

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Here’s the latest on Arsenal’s injury concerns, including return timelines for some of their biggest names.

Gabriel Martinelli: Hamstring Concern Keeps Winger Out

Gabriel Martinelli’s injury woes deepened when he limped off against Newcastle on 5 February, clutching his hamstring just 37 minutes into the game at St James’ Park. The Brazilian’s absence has been felt, and while his recovery is progressing well, he remains unavailable for selection.

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Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Martinelli is recovering slightly ahead of Bukayo Saka but remains cautious about setting a firm return date.

“I am not sure,” Arteta admitted when asked about Martinelli and Saka’s availability for Arsenal’s upcoming fixtures. “That’s a question for the doctor. They are both evolving really well. Probably Gabi Martinelli is a bit ahead of Bukayo, as well for the extent of that injury.”

Expected Return Date: March 2025

Bukayo Saka: Long-Awaited Comeback Edging Closer

Arsenal have been without Bukayo Saka since December after the winger suffered a hamstring tear in the win over Crystal Palace. Initially ruled out until March, Saka’s absence has been a significant blow to the Gunners’ attacking dynamism.

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However, Arsenal fans were given a boost when images surfaced of Saka working in the gym during a training camp in Dubai. A return for the Champions League last-16 tie against PSV has been floated as a possibility, but Arteta is unlikely to take any unnecessary risks with his star player.

Expected Return Date: March 2025

Ethan Nwaneri: Minor Concern After West Ham Knock

Ethan Nwaneri sparked concern when he limped around the pitch following his substitution against West Ham. However, Arteta quickly moved to allay fears, confirming that the teenager’s issue is not serious.

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“It was just fatigue, I think,” Arteta explained post-match, suggesting Nwaneri could be available for selection in Arsenal’s upcoming fixtures.

Expected Return Date: 26 February 2025 vs Nottingham Forest (A)

Takehiro Tomiyasu: Season Over Following Surgery

Takehiro Tomiyasu’s season has been wrecked by injuries, with the defender playing just six minutes of Premier League football this campaign. After struggling with a persistent knee issue, he finally underwent surgery, effectively ruling him out for the rest of the season.

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Despite the setback, Tomiyasu remains defiant, assuring fans that he is determined to return stronger.

“I’ve had surgery on my knee a few days ago and I’ve already started my rehab to do what I love the most again,” the Japan international shared on Instagram. “It has been the toughest period in my career for sure and it carries on a bit more but I won’t give up. Thank you for your support and see you again.”

Arsenal have since confirmed that Tomiyasu’s rehabilitation programme will keep him sidelined until late 2025.

Expected Return Date: Late 2025

Kai Havertz: Surgery Ends Season Early

Kai Havertz’s absence is another hammer blow for Arteta, with the German midfielder ruled out for the rest of the season after undergoing hamstring surgery.

The injury, sustained during Arsenal’s warm-weather training camp in Dubai, means Havertz will not feature again until the start of next season.

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In a social media post from his hospital bed, Havertz remained optimistic: “The last few days have been tough to process both physically and mentally. But yesterday was a good day. A successful op and a win. Thanks for all the messages of support over the last few days, it’s really helped. I’m now focused on my journey to full fitness and giving all the support I can give to the team in the background.”

Expected Return Date: Start of the 2025-26 season

Gabriel Jesus: No Timeline for Return

Gabriel Jesus’ knee problems have persisted, forcing him to undergo surgery in January. His absence has left a void in Arsenal’s attacking options, but as of now, there is no clear timeline for his return.

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With no updates from Arteta or the club, Jesus’ situation remains uncertain, adding to Arsenal’s growing list of selection headaches.

Expected Return Date: Unknown