Arsenal has shared the latest injury updates on key players Bukayo Saka, Ben White, Ethan Nwaneri, and Takehiro Tomiyasu as they prepare for crucial upcoming matches, including a highly anticipated FA Cup clash against Manchester United and the North London derby against Tottenham. Here’s a detailed look at each player’s situation and potential return timeline:
Bukayo Saka
- Injury Status: Saka sustained a hamstring injury during Arsenal’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace in December, requiring a medical procedure.
- Recovery Update: Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that Saka’s surgery was successful but predicted a lengthy absence, estimating his return in early April at the soonest.
- Impact: With 5 goals and 10 assists in the Premier League this season, Saka’s absence is a significant blow to Arsenal’s offensive capabilities.
- Expected Return: Tuesday, April 1, against Fulham (H).
Takehiro Tomiyasu
- Injury Status: The Japanese international has been sidelined since a knee injury sustained on international duty last summer.
- Recovery Progress: Originally slated for a November return, a setback delayed his recovery. Arteta recently revealed that Tomiyasu has resumed some activities on the pitch but requires further monitoring.
- Expected Return: Saturday, January 18, against Aston Villa (H).
Ethan Nwaneri
- Injury Status: The 17-year-old midfielder suffered a muscle injury during the Gunners’ 1-1 draw against Brighton. Nwaneri scored in that match, marking his second Premier League goal of the season.
- Recovery Update: Arteta confirmed Nwaneri would be out for a few weeks.
- Expected Return: Sunday, February 2, against Manchester City (H).
Ben White
- Injury Status: White underwent knee surgery in November for an injury initially expected to sideline him for most of the season.
- Recovery Progress: White’s rehabilitation has progressed ahead of schedule, and he could be available for Arsenal’s fixture against Manchester City.
- Expected Return: Sunday, February 2, against Manchester City (H).
Team Implications
Arsenal faces a challenging schedule with matches against Manchester United, Tottenham, and Manchester City in the coming weeks. The absence of key players like Saka and White adds to the difficulty, but the potential return of Tomiyasu and Nwaneri provides some optimism. Arteta will need to rely on squad depth and tactical adjustments to navigate this critical period.