Arsenal Injury Update: Latest on Ethan Nwaneri, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Martinelli’s Return Dates
Mikel Arteta faces another selection dilemma as Arsenal prepares to take on Nottingham Forest with a depleted attacking lineup.
The Gunners suffered a crucial 1-0 loss to West Ham over the weekend, missing the opportunity to close the gap on league leaders Liverpool. The defeat left Arteta visibly frustrated, as he openly criticized his players, hoping they would “suffer” the consequences of their poor performance.
Adding to Arsenal’s setbacks, young midfielder Myles Lewis-Skelly received a straight red card against West Ham, ruling him out of the upcoming clash with Nottingham Forest. While the defensive unit remains stable, concerns persist regarding the team’s attacking depth.
Here’s the latest on Arsenal’s injury list:
Gabriel Martinelli
Martinelli suffered a hamstring injury against Newcastle on February 5, forcing him off the pitch in the first half. He is expected to be sidelined for about a month, ruling him out of the Nottingham Forest game and possibly the Champions League last-16 first leg. However, reports suggest he is recovering faster than Bukayo Saka.
When asked about their return, Arteta admitted uncertainty, stating, “That’s a question for the doctor. They are both progressing well.”
Expected return: March
Bukayo Saka
Saka has been out since December due to a hamstring tear sustained in Arsenal’s win over Crystal Palace. Initially, his recovery was projected to last until March, but recent images of him training in Dubai have sparked optimism among fans.
Although there’s speculation about his availability for the Champions League tie against PSV, Arteta is expected to be cautious about rushing him back.
Expected return: March
Ethan Nwaneri
Arsenal fans grew concerned when Nwaneri appeared to be limping after being substituted against West Ham. However, Arteta reassured that it was just fatigue rather than an injury.
Expected return: February 26 vs. Nottingham Forest
Takehiro Tomiyasu
Tomiyasu has played only six minutes this season due to a knee injury that required surgery. He recently confirmed that he underwent another knee procedure, ruling him out for the remainder of the season.
Despite the setback, he remains determined to return stronger, sharing, “This has been the toughest period of my career, but I won’t give up.”
Expected return: Late 2025
Kai Havertz
Havertz is also ruled out for the season following hamstring surgery after an injury sustained during training in Dubai. The German international confirmed he is focusing on rehabilitation and hopes to be fit by the summer.
Expected return: Start of the 2025-26 season
Gabriel Jesus
Jesus underwent knee surgery in January and is expected to be sidelined for an extended period.
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