William Saliba, Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz and Christian Norgaard – Arsenal injury news and return dates ahead of Nottingham Forest

Arsenal’s season has started with promise, but injuries to key players have cast a shadow over Mikel Arteta’s plans. With a crucial clash against Nottingham Forest looming after the international break, the focus has shifted to the fitness of stars like William Saliba, Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Christian Norgaard.

The Gunners have already collected six points from their opening three matches, including victories against Manchester United and Leeds United. However, the defeat to Liverpool highlighted the fragility of Arteta’s squad depth when injuries pile up. The manager now faces a race against time to have his core players available for September 13.

William Saliba’s setback came as a major blow. The Frenchman lasted just five minutes at Anfield before limping off, having twisted his ankle during the warm-up. Arteta admitted he allowed the defender to try, but it quickly became clear he could not continue. In his place, youngster Cristhian Mosquera made an unexpected Premier League debut and impressed despite the pressure. Still, the uncertainty around Saliba’s recovery timeline is worrying.

Bukayo Saka is another concern. The winger was forced off against Leeds after clutching his left hamstring, sparking fears of another lengthy layoff. Saka had surgery last season on his opposite hamstring, missing nearly four months, and Arsenal supporters are desperate to avoid a repeat. Arteta has confirmed surgery will not be required this time, but he admitted Saka will be out for “a few weeks,” with no definitive return date set.

Kai Havertz’s injury has also dampened spirits. The German forward underwent minor knee surgery on August 28 after being ruled out ahead of the Leeds clash. Arteta described it as “unfortunate and quite sad” given Havertz’s efforts to build momentum in his second season in North London. While the operation was successful, the manager warned that the recovery process will take “weeks, not months,” though Havertz’s absence leaves a creative gap in midfield.

Christian Norgaard, Arsenal’s summer signing from Brentford, has yet to feature in the Premier League this season. The Dane picked up a minor injury during pre-season and has missed the opening fixtures. Arteta suggested Norgaard could return in time for the Forest game, but his availability will depend on how he responds in the coming days.

Ben White’s situation is also worth monitoring. After completing 71 minutes in the season opener against Manchester United, the defender has been absent from the last two matchday squads. Arteta has been vague about White’s condition but remains hopeful of his inclusion against Forest. With Saliba sidelined, White’s presence could be vital for defensive stability.

Meanwhile, Gabriel Jesus continues his long road to recovery. The Brazilian striker has been out since suffering an ACL injury in last season’s FA Cup defeat to Manchester United. Recent social media posts, however, show Jesus running and working with the ball again, bringing optimism that he could return before the end of the year. His message — “It’s been seven months of pain, uncertainty, and anxiety. Today, I finally feel light — like a child playing football again” — gave fans a much-needed boost.

The international break has therefore come at the perfect time for Arsenal. With no Premier League action until September 13, Arteta hopes the squad can heal both physically and mentally before the campaign intensifies. Having key players back will be crucial as the Gunners prepare for a packed schedule of league and European fixtures.

As things stand, Arsenal’s treatment room remains crowded, and questions linger over whether the squad has the depth to sustain a title challenge. Nottingham Forest may not seem the sternest of tests, but Arteta knows that dropping points early could haunt his team later in the season. The return of Saliba, Saka, and Havertz will not only strengthen the squad but also restore belief that Arsenal can fight toe-to-toe with Manchester City and Liverpool once again.

For now, the Emirates waits anxiously. Will the stars return in time, or will Arsenal head into Forest with a depleted lineup? The coming week may define how the Gunners approach the next phase of their season.