The final international break of the season has concluded, leaving all 20 Premier League clubs with an uninterrupted schedule until May. However, the recent matches have led to injury concerns for several key players.
Many Premier League stars played crucial roles for their national teams in World Cup qualifiers and UEFA Nations League fixtures. Unfortunately, some sustained injuries that could sideline them when the league resumes in April after this weekend’s FA Cup games.
Arsenal’s Riccardo Calafiori suffered an injury during Italy’s Nations League game against Germany, while Nottingham Forest’s Chris Wood was forced off against New Caledonia, despite helping New Zealand secure a World Cup spot. Meanwhile, Liverpool’s Ryan Gravenberch and Chelsea’s Cole Palmer withdrew from international duty before their matches began.
On a positive note, some long-term absentees are set to return in early April, providing a boost for their respective clubs as they navigate the final nine weeks of the season.
Arsenal
Bukayo Saka has been recovering from hamstring surgery since December, but he aims to return for the Champions League clash with Real Madrid on April 8. However, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and Takehiro Tomiyasu are ruled out for the season. Riccardo Calafiori is undergoing tests for a knee injury, while Jurrien Timber, who has been battling illness, could return against Fulham.
Aston Villa
Ollie Watkins missed England’s World Cup qualifiers after being substituted during Villa’s Champions League match against Club Brugge. He may return for their FA Cup game against Preston, where Ross Barkley could also make his first appearance since January.
Bournemouth
Julian Araujo and Marcos Senesi are nearing their return, with manager Andoni Iraola confirming they have resumed training after undergoing surgery in Finland.
Chelsea
Cole Palmer missed England’s recent games due to a minor issue but is expected to be available after the international break.
Fulham
Reiss Nelson is out for the season, but Sasa Lukic will return from suspension in the FA Cup. Kenny Tete and Harry Wilson are set to make their comebacks in April.
Liverpool
Ryan Gravenberch could return for the Merseyside derby against Everton. Goalkeeper Alisson is also expected to be fit despite picking up an injury while on international duty with Brazil. However, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Conor Bradley, and Joe Gomez remain sidelined.
Manchester City
Rodri is unlikely to return before the Club World Cup. Nathan Ake’s availability for the end-of-season fixtures is uncertain. Bernardo Silva, Ederson, and Oscar Bobb are expected to return soon, while John Stones and Manuel Akanji may not be back until May.
Manchester United
Harry Maguire could return against Nottingham Forest on April 1. Kobbie Mainoo may also be available in April, while Luke Shaw and Amad are set to play before the season ends. However, Lisandro Martinez’s campaign is over.
Newcastle United
Anthony Gordon suffered a hip injury while on international duty and is doubtful for the match against Brentford on April 2. Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles are out until May, while Lewis Hall will miss the rest of the season following foot surgery.
Nottingham Forest
Chris Wood is undergoing assessment for a hip injury sustained while playing for New Zealand. His availability remains uncertain.
With crucial games ahead, these injuries could significantly impact the title race, European qualification, and relegation battle. Clubs will be hoping their key players recover quickly as the Premier League season reaches its climax.
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