Arsenal injury update: Martin Odegaard, Piero Hincapie, Noni Madueke latest news and return dates ahead of Fulham match

Arsenal are once again facing a crucial period in their Premier League campaign as they prepare to take on Fulham this weekend. With injuries disrupting their rhythm before the international break, Mikel Arteta’s squad is hoping for a boost with several key players nearing a return. From captain Martin Ødegaard to new signings Piero Hincapie and Noni Madueke, the Gunners’ medical report paints a mixed picture of setbacks and hopeful recoveries.

The biggest concern remains Martin Ødegaard, whose influence in Arsenal’s midfield cannot be overstated. The Norwegian playmaker withdrew from international duty after sustaining a knee injury during Arsenal’s 2-0 win over West Ham. The collision with Crysencio Summerville left him in visible pain, forcing him off in the second half. What initially seemed like a minor knock has now turned into a lingering issue that could sideline him for several weeks.

Arsenal’s medical team later confirmed that Ødegaard had suffered a medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury, but the club has yet to issue a definite return date. Mikel Arteta expressed concern after the West Ham game, saying, “He had a clash, knee to knee. Immediately he felt discomfort. He’s not optimistic about it. He has a brace on it, but hopefully, it’s not too serious.” Given Ødegaard’s recurring shoulder problems earlier this season, the Arsenal captain’s physical state has become a growing worry for fans and staff alike.

Despite the setback, there is some encouraging news from the camp. Declan Rice featured for England against Wales last week after being substituted as a precaution during the West Ham clash. His availability is a massive boost for Arteta, who relies heavily on the England midfielder’s leadership and defensive balance in midfield.

Attention now turns to Noni Madueke, Arsenal’s summer recruit from Chelsea, who was beginning to show flashes of brilliance before a knee injury halted his progress. Madueke picked up the injury during the 1-1 draw with Manchester City, where he was withdrawn at halftime. Arteta later revealed, “He wasn’t fit enough to continue, and we decided not to risk him.” The winger has since missed several games and was excluded from England’s latest squad, though reports suggest he could return to training by early November.

Piero Hincapie, another summer signing, is also edging closer to full fitness. The Ecuadorian defender, who joined from Bayer Leverkusen, has managed just one substitute appearance so far due to a persistent groin injury. Arteta provided an update before the West Ham fixture, saying, “He will be available after the international break. This game came too quickly for him.” Hincapie’s return would be timely, especially as Arsenal seek more depth in their defensive options heading into a busy winter schedule.

Meanwhile, Kai Havertz continues his recovery after undergoing knee surgery in August. The German international has been limited to a single appearance this season and remains several weeks away from returning. Arteta admitted the club is taking a cautious approach with his rehabilitation, stating, “We’re moving from weeks to months. It was a difficult decision for him to go through that surgery, but it was the right one. Knowing Kai, he will come back stronger.”

Another long-term absentee is Gabriel Jesus, who is still recovering from a torn ACL. The Brazilian striker has been spotted doing light individual work and running on grass but is not yet match-fit. Arsenal have left him out of their Champions League squad, indicating that his return might not come until late 2025 or even early 2026. Jesus’s absence has been a major blow for the Gunners, who have struggled to maintain their attacking fluidity in his absence.

Despite the injury concerns, there is optimism within the Arsenal camp. The break has allowed several players to recover, and Arteta’s tactical adaptability has ensured the team remains competitive in both domestic and European competitions. Players like Leandro Trossard and Fabio Vieira have stepped up in recent matches, offering temporary solutions while the key figures remain sidelined.

The upcoming clash against Fulham will serve as a test of Arsenal’s depth and resilience. Arteta’s side has shown tremendous determination throughout the campaign, but with Manchester City and Liverpool maintaining pressure at the top of the table, the Gunners cannot afford to lose momentum. The manager will hope to have at least one or two key players back to strengthen his options and restore balance across the pitch.

In summary, Arsenal’s injury list remains lengthy, but the gradual recovery of players like Hincapie and Madueke offers hope for the coming weeks. Ødegaard’s situation, however, remains uncertain and could define the rhythm of Arsenal’s season moving forward. As the Gunners aim to keep their title challenge alive, Arteta knows that keeping his squad fit and firing will be just as crucial as any tactical adjustment on the pitch.