Arsenal Injury Update: Latest on Bukayo Saka, Gabriel, Riccardo Calafiori and More | OneFootball

Arsenal’s Injury Woes: Saka, Gabriel, and Teammates Face Fitness Battles

As November bows out, Arsenal have certainly left their mark with a series of emphatic victories, including a pair of five-goal performances against Sporting and West Ham. However, these victories have come at a significant cost, with several key players sidelined due to injuries.

Saka Shines but Exits Early

Bukayo Saka’s prowess was on full display in the recent clash against West Ham, where he not only assisted twice but also converted a penalty. His departure from the pitch 16 minutes before the final whistle, however, has left fans anxious. Following a collision that saw him require immediate medical attention, there was considerable concern about his fitness. Nonetheless, Arsenal’s manager Mikel Arteta provided a silver lining post-match by confirming that Saka is “fine”. Fans will be eager to see him back in action potentially as soon as the upcoming home game against Manchester United on December 4, 2024.

Photo: IMAGO

Gabriel’s Half-Time Withdrawal

In the same match, Gabriel managed to open the scoring and win a penalty, contributing significantly before being substituted at half-time. Arteta explained the decision as precautionary, linked to a niggle from a previous fixture. His performance was crucial, but with Arsenal comfortably ahead, the risk of aggravating his injury was deemed unnecessary. Like Saka, Gabriel could make a return in the next fixture against Manchester United, provided his recovery continues smoothly.

Photo: IMAGO

Concern for Calafiori

Riccardo Calafiori’s situation appears more precarious. Replaced before the 60-minute mark by Oleksandr Zinchenko, the substitution was not a tactical one but a necessity due to ongoing fitness issues. Arteta highlighted the need to manage Calafiori’s game time carefully, especially considering his history of serious knee injuries. The Italian’s potential return remains uncertain, but the hope is that he will be available for the Manchester United game.

Photo IMAGO

Midfield Woes Continue

Arsenal’s midfield duo, Thomas Partey and Mikel Merino, were notably absent in the recent outings. Partey has been a key figure for Arsenal this season but was unable to participate due to a muscle issue. Meanwhile, Merino, who substituted for Partey in Lisbon and contributed to Arsenal’s fifth goal, was sidelined due to a knee problem. Both players missed the London derby, and their return dates remain up in the air as the club monitors their recovery.

Long-Term Concerns

The long-term injury list includes Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu. White, who underwent knee surgery last month, is progressing well according to Arteta, though his return is not expected until early 2025. Similarly, Tomiyasu has faced a challenging recovery from a knee injury sustained over the summer, with his timeline for a return still unclear. The Japanese defender is set for a change of environment in his rehabilitation process, which the club hopes will aid in his recovery.

Arsenal’s depth is being tested, but the resilience of the squad and the management’s strategic approach to player health are likely to be key factors as they navigate this challenging period. The upcoming fixtures, especially the home game against Manchester United, will be critical in assessing the impact of these injuries on Arsenal’s campaign. Fans will be hoping for quick recoveries, particularly for stars like Saka and Gabriel, whose contributions are vital for the team’s ambitions this season.