Arsenal star set to return from injury in time for Atletico Madrid clash | OneFootball

Arsenal injury update as Arteta faces key fitness tests ahead of Atletico clash

Arsenal manage mounting injuries amid strong form

Arsenal’s season continues to be defined by a blend of resilience and disruption. The club returned to the top of the Premier League following a narrow 1-0 victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage, but while Mikel Arteta’s side have maintained momentum, the number of absentees continues to shape the manager’s plans.

Photo: IMAGO

As Arsenal prepare to face Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, the focus shifts from their tactical precision to the growing list of fitness concerns. The weekend’s win brought no new setbacks, a welcome reprieve for a squad already dealing with several high-profile injuries. Yet the club captain remains among those sidelined, leaving questions about leadership and creativity in a pivotal stage of the campaign.

Odegaard recovery process continues

Martin Odegaard’s season has been one of constant interruption. After returning from a shoulder injury, the Norwegian midfielder suffered a medial collateral ligament issue during the victory over West Ham, ruling him out for several weeks.

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Arteta has been careful not to impose expectations. “We have to be patient,” he told reporters earlier this month, stressing the importance of avoiding setbacks for his captain. Odegaard withdrew from Norway’s international fixtures to concentrate on his recovery, which has been described as “progressing steadily.”

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The timeline for his return remains fluid, but early indications suggest he will miss up to seven games and could reappear after the November international break. His absence has forced Arteta to reimagine his midfield, relying more on Declan Rice’s authority and Eberechi Eze’s versatility in advanced roles.

Potential return date: November 23, 2025 vs Tottenham (H)

Defensive boost expected with Hincapie nearing return

One of the more encouraging developments concerns Piero Hincapie. The Ecuadorian centre-back, signed from Bayer Leverkusen on Deadline Day, has featured only once due to a persistent groin problem that has limited his training load and match readiness.

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Hincapie’s integration into Arsenal’s system has been slower than planned, but there are signs of improvement. “He is back with the group and looking sharper,” Arteta confirmed before the Fulham game, hinting at a possible inclusion for the upcoming Champions League tie.

Although he was not part of the squad at the weekend, the expectation is that he will be available for selection against Atletico Madrid. His recovery offers timely reinforcement for a defence that has maintained excellent domestic form but faces increased demands with European fixtures returning.

Potential return date: October 21, 2025 vs Atletico Madrid (H)

Ongoing fitness concerns for Madueke, Havertz and Jesus

Noni Madueke’s knee injury has disrupted what was meant to be his first sustained run under Arteta. The winger, who joined from Chelsea in the summer, suffered the setback during the clash with Manchester City. Arteta told reporters, “It looks like he is going to be out for a few weeks. We don’t really know yet. Probably we are going to have to scan him next week again.” His potential return in November remains the optimistic projection.

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Kai Havertz’s absence has been similarly problematic. The German midfielder has not featured since the opening day win over Manchester United after undergoing knee surgery. Arteta has remained cautious on his progress, suggesting that while recovery has been positive, “he will only return when fully ready.” A return before the next international break is possible but not guaranteed.

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Gabriel Jesus continues his long recovery from the ACL tear sustained in January’s FA Cup loss to Manchester United. His work in rehabilitation has impressed the coaching staff, with Arteta saying, “Gabi is doing super well. I think he looks in a really good place.” The expectation remains that he will not feature until late 2025, with Arsenal taking no risks given the scale of his injury.

Photo: IMAGO

Potential return dates:

Arsenal’s balancing act between success and strain

Arsenal’s results have masked the strain of constant rotation, yet their ability to adapt reflects a maturity developed under Arteta. The manager’s measured approach to recovery timelines mirrors his belief in building long-term stability over short-term gain. As the fixtures pile up, the club’s medical and tactical management will be critical to sustaining their dual pursuit of Premier League and Champions League success.