Arsenal’s title ambitions face a stern test as they deal with a wave of injuries ahead of a critical match against Aston Villa. With a congested schedule that includes Champions League fixtures and the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg, Mikel Arteta must navigate this challenging period without several key players.
Arsenal’s Defensive Woes
- Ben White
The versatile defender, who has been pivotal both as a center-back and a right-back, has missed the last ten Premier League matches due to a knee injury. White’s absence has been a significant blow, particularly given his ability to contribute to both defensive stability and offensive build-up play. While he is progressing in his recovery, Arsenal fans will need to wait until February for his return, with the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Newcastle United being his most likely comeback date.
Expected Return: 02/02/2025 - Takehiro Tomiyasu
The Japanese international, sidelined by a long-term knee injury, is making gradual progress. Arteta has indicated that Tomiyasu has started light training on the pitch, but his full recovery will require careful monitoring. His return could provide some much-needed depth in defense.
Expected Return: 25/01/2025 - Riccardo Calafiori
Another defensive casualty, Calafiori missed the north London derby victory against Tottenham due to a knee issue. However, Arteta has described it as a minor problem, and Calafiori is expected to return imminently, potentially in time for the Aston Villa match.
Expected Return: 18/01/2025
Midfield Troubles
- Ethan Nwaneri
The highly promising youngster suffered a muscle injury during the recent 1-1 draw against Brighton. Arteta has confirmed that Nwaneri will be out for several weeks, depriving the Gunners of an exciting talent during a critical phase of the season.
Expected Return: 02/02/2025
Attacking Setbacks
- Bukayo Saka
The absence of Arsenal’s talismanic winger is perhaps the most concerning. Saka’s hamstring injury has kept him out of action for the past four matches and will likely see him sidelined until late March. With five goals and 11 assists already this season, his absence could severely impact Arsenal’s title challenge. Arteta has confirmed that Saka underwent a successful procedure but emphasized the lengthy recovery time required.
Expected Return: 29/03/2025 - Gabriel Jesus
The Brazilian forward’s season has been derailed by a suspected ACL injury sustained during the FA Cup loss to Manchester United. Jesus, who was finding his form with six goals in seven matches, now faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines. His injury leaves Arsenal with limited options up front, adding pressure on Arteta to find solutions in attack.
Expected Return: To Be Determined
The Road Ahead for Arsenal
With six crucial matches over the next three weeks, Arsenal’s depth will be tested like never before. The Gunners are aiming to maintain their title push while advancing in the Champions League and securing a spot in the Carabao Cup final. Arteta’s ability to rotate his squad effectively and adapt tactically will be key to navigating this injury crisis.
Despite these setbacks, Arsenal showcased resilience in their 2-1 victory over Tottenham. Arteta praised his team’s effort, particularly given their grueling schedule. “We played 120 minutes less than 72 hours ago, but our performance was remarkable,” he said.
The upcoming clash against Aston Villa marks the start of a defining period for Arsenal. With key players sidelined, this stretch will reveal whether the Gunners have the depth and determination to sustain their challenge for silverware across multiple competitions.