Arsenal injury update: Martin Ødegaard, Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, and Noni Madueke latest news and return dates — Arsenal handed a boost as injured star will return after the international break

Arsenal fans have been holding their breath over the fitness of several key players, but there’s finally a glimmer of good news on the horizon. The Gunners extended their unbeaten streak to seven matches with a solid 2–0 victory over West Ham, yet celebrations were dampened as fresh injury concerns emerged for two of Mikel Arteta’s most influential figures — Martin Ødegaard and Declan Rice.

Despite the victory, the growing injury list remains a major concern for Arteta. His side has already had to navigate the season without several important names, including Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, and Noni Madueke, while summer signing Piero Hincapié also remains sidelined. Still, the international break offers a brief but much-needed window for recovery, with medical reports hinting that at least one key star could return immediately afterward.

Martin Ødegaard: Captain’s comeback delayed

The biggest blow of the weekend came when Martin Ødegaard, Arsenal’s inspirational captain, limped off midway through the first half against West Ham. Having just returned from a shoulder problem, the Norwegian playmaker suffered a knee injury after a collision with Crysencio Summerville. Despite attempting to continue, he was replaced by Martin Zubimendi before halftime — marking his third consecutive early substitution this season.

Arteta confirmed after the match that Ødegaard “felt immediate discomfort” and described his outlook as “not optimistic.” Scans later revealed a medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury, forcing the captain to withdraw from international duty with Norway. While no official return date has been given, Arsenal hope to have him back before the end of November if his recovery goes smoothly.

Declan Rice: Minor scare, major relief

There was a collective sigh of relief for supporters when it was confirmed that Declan Rice’s back injury wasn’t serious. The England midfielder opened the scoring against his former club but was forced off late in the game holding his lower back. Arteta admitted the player “felt discomfort” and needed further assessment, but Rice returned to training with the England squad just days later — an encouraging sign that he should be fit to feature when club football resumes.

Noni Madueke: Patience required

Arsenal’s new winger Noni Madueke had just begun to find rhythm before being struck by a knee injury that has halted his progress. He was substituted at halftime in the 1–1 draw against Manchester City, with Arteta later confirming that he would be out for “several months.” The club’s medical staff is optimistic about a late November return if rehabilitation continues as planned.

Piero Hincapié: Nearing full fitness

Another summer arrival, Piero Hincapié, continues his recovery from a groin problem sustained in training. The Ecuadorian defender was close to making the squad against West Ham, but Arteta revealed the match came “too soon.” However, the manager remains confident that Hincapié will be available immediately after the international break, providing a defensive boost ahead of Arsenal’s trip to Fulham on October 18.

Kai Havertz: Long-term but steady recovery

Meanwhile, Kai Havertz continues to recover from knee surgery that has kept him out since the start of the campaign. Arteta provided an update earlier this week, confirming that the German international has started light gym work and is gradually regaining strength in his knee. “It was a difficult decision for him to undergo that procedure,” said the Arsenal boss, “but it was essential. He’s progressing well, though the timeline has extended from weeks to months.” Havertz is not expected to return until sometime in November.

Gabriel Jesus: Patience for the long road ahead

One of Arsenal’s longest absentees, Gabriel Jesus, is still undergoing rehabilitation after major ACL surgery. The Brazilian forward has resumed individual training on the grass but has not been included in Arsenal’s Champions League squad, signaling that a full return may not come until late December or early January. Arteta explained, “He underwent significant surgery and will need several months. We hope he can return sooner, but right now the medical expectations are clear.”

Mikel Arteta’s balancing act

Arteta has managed to keep Arsenal’s momentum alive despite the growing injury list — a testament to the squad’s depth and resilience. With young players stepping up and tactical rotations working effectively, the Gunners have maintained their place near the top of the Premier League table. However, with key fixtures looming, including clashes against Fulham, Tottenham, and Bayern Munich, Arteta will be desperate to have his senior stars back in time.

The silver lining

The timing of the international break could not be more perfect for Arsenal. It offers recovery time for players like Rice, Ødegaard, and Hincapié, while also allowing the medical team to carefully manage the rehabilitation of long-term absentees. According to internal sources, at least two players are expected to be cleared for full training within the next week, offering Arteta more flexibility in team selection.

Fans’ optimism

Among fans, there’s cautious optimism that Arsenal’s injury crisis is finally easing. The team’s ability to grind out results despite adversity has reinforced belief that they can sustain a serious title challenge. As the season intensifies, every returning player could make the difference between a strong campaign and another “what could have been.”

Looking ahead

As Arsenal prepare for their post-break fixtures, the focus remains clear — maintain momentum, protect fitness, and continue fighting on all fronts. With the return of key figures on the horizon, the Gunners could be set for a decisive surge in form as the race for the Premier League title begins to heat up.