Ahead of their crucial upcoming match against Manchester United, Arsenal has provided updates on the injuries of key players Bukayo Saka, Ben White, and Ethan Nwaneri, along with their expected return dates.
Bukayo Saka:
Saka, one of Arsenal’s standout performers this season, has been sidelined due to a hamstring injury sustained during the 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace in December. The injury required medical intervention, and manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that Saka underwent a procedure. While the recovery is going well, Arteta warned that Saka would be out for several weeks, potentially up to two months. With the FA Cup and crucial Premier League matches on the horizon, his absence is a significant blow for Arsenal, as Saka has been involved in 15 goals (5 goals and 10 assists) in the league this season alone. The most optimistic return date for Saka appears to be early April, with Arteta suggesting a possible return for the match against Fulham on April 1st.
Expected return date: April 1st vs Fulham (Home)
Ben White:
Defender Ben White had undergone knee surgery in November, which initially led to concerns that he would miss the rest of the season. However, his recovery has progressed well, and there is hope he could return earlier than expected. Arteta confirmed that White is a few weeks away from returning, and while his participation in Arsenal’s upcoming matches remains uncertain, he could be back in time for the high-stakes clash against Manchester City on February 2nd. This is a positive development for the Gunners, as White has been crucial to their defensive stability.
Expected return date: February 2nd vs Manchester City (Away)
Ethan Nwaneri:
Teenager Ethan Nwaneri, who recently made headlines for his impressive performances in the Premier League, also faces a spell on the sidelines due to a muscle injury sustained during the 1-1 draw against Brighton. Nwaneri scored Arsenal’s only goal in the match, but unfortunately had to come off due to the injury. Arteta confirmed that Nwaneri will be out for a few weeks, but he could return in time for the match against Manchester City. This injury is another setback for Arsenal, as Nwaneri’s performances had been a bright spot this season, especially given his potential for further growth.
Expected return date: February 2nd vs Manchester City (Home)
Takehiro Tomiyasu:
The Japan international, who has been out with a long-term knee injury sustained on international duty last summer, is the closest to making a return. Originally expected back in November, Tomiyasu’s recovery faced a setback, but he has since resumed some activities on the pitch. Arteta has stated that his recovery is being closely monitored, with a potential return date set for mid-January. If Tomiyasu is able to continue progressing positively, he could be back in action for Arsenal’s home game against Aston Villa on January 18th. His return would provide much-needed depth to Arsenal’s defensive options.
Expected return date: January 18th vs Aston Villa (Home)
Summary of injury updates for Arsenal ahead of the match against Manchester United:
- Bukayo Saka: Out for several weeks, likely to return in April.
- Ben White: Expected back by early February, potentially for the Manchester City match.
- Ethan Nwaneri: Expected back in early February, likely for the Manchester City match.
- Takehiro Tomiyasu: Expected back by mid-January, potentially for the Aston Villa game.
As Arsenal prepares for the upcoming match against Manchester United, they will need to navigate these injury issues, particularly in the offensive and defensive departments. Despite these challenges, the team’s strength in depth, as well as the recent return of Kai Havertz and Raheem Sterling, should help them remain competitive during this busy period.