Tottenham Hotspur set for major injury boost ahead of Arsenal clash | OneFootball

Spurs injury update paints complex picture ahead of Arsenal showdown

Injury picture grows ahead of crucial fixtures

Tottenham’s 2-2 draw with Manchester United was dramatic enough, yet the fallout has left Thomas Frank’s squad facing growing uncertainty. As the North London derby looms large, several key players are fighting fitness battles that could shape the club’s momentum across both domestic and European fronts.

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The draw at Old Trafford summed up Tottenham’s current phase. Spirited but inconsistent, dangerous yet fragile. Late goals from Mathys Tel and Richarlison almost secured a vital win, only for Matthijs de Ligt’s header in the 96th minute to deny them. The frustration was palpable, but Frank’s greater concern may lie in the expanding list of injury worries as Spurs prepare for Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain after the international break.

Randal Kolo Muani setback

Randal Kolo Muani’s substitution at half-time against Manchester United raised eyebrows, with initial suggestions that his jaw issue was “nothing big”. Yet subsequent reports from France indicate the problem could be more serious. The forward has withdrawn from France’s World Cup qualifiers after scans confirmed a lower jaw injury sustained at Old Trafford.

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The French Football Federation confirmed: “Randal Kolo Muani will miss the international break which begins this Monday. The Tottenham Hotspur striker suffered a lower jaw injury on Saturday against Manchester United. After consulting with Dr Franck Le Gall, who had previously spoken with his Tottenham counterpart, Didier Deschamps confirmed Randal Kolo Muani’s withdrawal.”

While surgery is not required, a definitive recovery timeframe remains elusive. Initial fears of a six to eight-week absence have eased, but his return date is still unknown.

Potential return date: Unknown

Romero and Kudus fitness updates

Cristian Romero’s gradual return to full match sharpness continues to be managed carefully. The centre-back, who was substituted late in the Manchester United match, appeared exhausted rather than re-injured. “Yeah, he was just done physically,” said Frank. “He just came back from that injury. He’s fine.”

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The Argentine has since joined up with his national squad, a positive sign for Tottenham’s defensive prospects.

Potential return date: November 23, 2025 vs Arsenal (A)

Mohammed Kudus, meanwhile, remains a case of short-term caution. The Ghanaian forward missed the Champions League win over Copenhagen after being withdrawn from the pre-match press conference. He was expected to feature against Manchester United but was again absent. Frank explained: “The knock, just too short a turnaround. Keeping him out for Tuesday game and this game. Very confident that he should be available for the next one.”

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His creative spark and directness have been missed, and Spurs will hope he is fit for the derby.

Potential return date: November 23, 2025 vs Arsenal (A)

Bergvall, Gray and Solanke nearing returns

Lucas Bergvall’s early exit against Chelsea due to a concussion was precautionary, but necessary. After taking a ball to the face, the midfielder pleaded to stay on, but concussion protocols made the decision straightforward. “There was a concussion. He couldn’t stay on and I think the medical team did a good job in that instance,” said Frank. The Swede will return after the international break.

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Potential return date: November 23, 2025 vs Arsenal (A)

Archie Gray’s calf injury, sustained in training before the Carabao Cup defeat to Newcastle, has kept him sidelined for three matches. Though still a fringe player, his absence narrows Frank’s rotation options. He is expected back by mid-December.

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Potential return date: December

Dominic Solanke’s prolonged absence has been a frustration since his summer move. A pre-season ankle problem required minor surgery, and Frank admits there is no precise return date yet. “Very aware that we want him back,” the manager said. “Hopefully touch wood have him back and no setbacks. He’ll not be available before the international break.”

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Potential return date: Late November/Early December

Long-term recovery progress

The picture improves slightly with Radu Dragusin, who is finally close to full recovery from his ACL injury sustained in January. “He’s fully integrated into training now,” confirmed Frank. “Because you’re out for nine months you need to build strength in the knee and so on. He’s definitely getting closer to being involved.” His return could coincide with the derby, offering depth and reassurance at the back.

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Potential return date: November 23, 2025 vs Arsenal (A)

Kota Takai is another player edging towards fitness after a quad problem. “He is about to be training soon,” Frank said, suggesting a potential squad return later this month.

Potential return date: November/December

Ben Davies continues rehabilitation from a hamstring issue suffered on international duty with Wales in their 4-2 loss to Belgium. Frank expects a return in “four or five weeks,” meaning late November is realistic.

Potential return date: Late November

Yves Bissouma’s comeback remains uncertain after undergoing surgery for a ligament injury sustained with Mali. “Biss, unfortunately, had a situation with the national team,” Frank noted. “He got a ligament injury to his ankle that will keep him out for weeks.”

Potential return date: Unknown

Dejan Kulusevski’s recovery from knee surgery is ongoing. The Swedish playmaker has not yet returned to outdoor training. “Still not on the grass. Working very hard to get him fit as quick as possible,” said Frank.

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Potential return date: December

The most serious case remains James Maddison. The midfielder’s ACL injury, sustained during pre-season, will likely keep him sidelined until summer 2026. His absence leaves a creative void that Spurs have struggled to fill consistently.

Potential return date: Summer 2026

Frank’s careful balancing act

For Thomas Frank, Tottenham’s injury situation encapsulates both promise and fragility. His high-intensity approach has made the team more dynamic and organised, yet it demands peak physical fitness. Managing recovery cycles, match load, and tactical consistency will be pivotal as Spurs navigate a congested winter schedule.

The manager’s pragmatic tone reflects awareness of the long-term picture. “We have to manage every player carefully,” a source close to the club said. “The medical staff are working closely with Thomas to ensure players return only when ready. It’s about sustainability, not short-term fixes.”

The North London derby against Arsenal on 23 November will therefore serve as both a test and a barometer. How many of these players return could dictate Tottenham’s rhythm heading into the busy December period.

Spurs remain competitive under Frank, but their pursuit of stability continues to be undermined by injuries to key personnel. With Champions League qualification and domestic momentum at stake, their medical department may prove as crucial to their season as any tactical plan.