Injury Update: Arsenal May Be Missing Up to Five Players, Including Riccardo Calafiori, Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and Kai Havertz, When They Face Fulham in Early April. Here’s the Latest on Their Injuries and Expected Return Dates.

Arsenal’s return to Premier League action in April comes with a cloud of uncertainty as several key players are battling injuries. With the international break and FA Cup quarter-finals keeping the Gunners out of action for some time, Mikel Arteta’s squad is now preparing for a crucial clash against Fulham on April 1. However, the team could be significantly weakened, with up to five first-team players potentially sidelined due to injuries.

Riccardo Calafiori, Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Kai Havertz are all facing fitness concerns, and their availability remains in question. With Arsenal trailing league leaders Liverpool by 12 points, every game is a must-win if they hope to stay in the title race. Here’s the latest update on these key players and when they might return to action.

Bukayo Saka – Hamstring Injury

Saka has been one of Arsenal’s most influential players, but his season has been disrupted by a persistent hamstring injury. The England international has been out of action since late December, missing the club’s last 13 Premier League matches.

Mikel Arteta recently provided an update, offering a glimmer of hope for fans eagerly awaiting Saka’s return.

“He’s getting closer,” Arteta said. “He’s stepping up and making very good progress. I would say we’re optimistic, but we want to be careful with his recovery.”

While there is no definitive return date, Saka is expected to be back before the end of the season, which could provide a massive boost for Arsenal’s campaign.

Expected Return: Before the end of the season

Riccardo Calafiori – Knee Concern

Riccardo Calafiori suffered an injury scare during Italy’s recent friendly against Germany. The defender slipped awkwardly and appeared to sustain a knee issue, forcing him off the pitch after receiving medical attention.

Italy’s head coach, Luciano Spalletti, revealed that Calafiori described his knee as feeling “strange,” but further medical evaluations are needed to determine the severity of the problem. Arsenal fans will be anxious for an update, as Calafiori has been a reliable defensive presence this season.

Expected Return: Unknown

Gabriel Jesus – ACL Injury

Gabriel Jesus has endured a difficult season plagued by injuries. The Brazilian forward suffered an ACL injury during Arsenal’s FA Cup match against Manchester United in January. The nature of the injury means he is unlikely to play again this season.

Jesus has begun his rehabilitation, but Arsenal will have to make do without their dynamic attacker for the remainder of the campaign. His absence has placed extra pressure on other forwards, with Arteta forced to rotate his attacking options.

Expected Return: Next season

Takehiro Tomiyasu – Knee Surgery

Tomiyasu has also been ruled out for an extended period after undergoing knee surgery. The Japanese defender was enjoying a solid run of form before the injury, offering versatility across the backline.

Unfortunately for Arsenal, his recovery is expected to last until the end of the season, meaning Arteta will have to rely on alternative defensive options in the final stretch of the campaign.

Expected Return: Next season

Kai Havertz – Hamstring Injury

Havertz’s season was abruptly halted due to a serious hamstring injury suffered during Arsenal’s mid-season training camp. The club confirmed that the German midfielder would not be available until the start of the 2025/26 season.

Despite undergoing surgery, Havertz remains optimistic about his rehabilitation. He recently expressed gratitude for the support he has received and stated that he is focused on making a full recovery while supporting his teammates from the sidelines.

Expected Return: Beginning of the 2025/26 season

Impact on Arsenal’s Title Ambitions

With Arsenal facing a crucial phase in the Premier League, missing key players could be a major setback in their quest for silverware. Liverpool’s lead at the top of the table means Arsenal must be near-perfect in their remaining fixtures to stand any chance of closing the gap.

Saka’s potential return in the coming weeks could be a game-changer, providing much-needed creativity and goal threat. However, the absences of Jesus, Tomiyasu, and Havertz will force Arteta to make tactical adjustments to keep Arsenal competitive.

Who Will Step Up?

The injuries present an opportunity for other squad members to shine. Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli, and Emile Smith Rowe may have to take on greater attacking responsibilities, while Jorginho and Declan Rice will need to stabilize the midfield in Havertz’s absence.

In defense, Ben White and William Saliba will be crucial in maintaining Arsenal’s defensive solidity, especially if Calafiori is unavailable. Jakub Kiwior could also see more game time as Arteta looks for solutions.

Upcoming Fixtures and Challenges

Arsenal’s next few matches will test their depth and resilience. With Fulham, Brighton, and Aston Villa on the horizon, Arteta will need to carefully manage his squad. The Gunners will also have to navigate the latter stages of European competition, which could further stretch their resources.

Final Thoughts

Injuries have been a recurring theme for Arsenal this season, but their ability to adapt will define their title aspirations. While some players may return before the season ends, others will be sidelined for months, leaving Arteta with difficult decisions.

For now, Arsenal fans will be hoping for positive updates on their injured stars, particularly Saka and Calafiori. If the Gunners can weather this storm, they may still have a fighting chance in the Premier League and beyond.