Arsenal are facing a significant injury crisis ahead of their upcoming Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest on Saturday, September 13, 2025. Mikel Arteta’s squad could be without up to eight players due to various injury concerns, casting doubt over their depth and stability going into a crucial stage of the season.
One of the biggest blows is the absence of William Saliba, who has been ruled out for at least three to four weeks after sustaining an ankle injury during warm-up against Liverpool. His absence leaves a major gap in Arsenal’s central defense, where his presence and composure have become essential in Arteta’s system. With Saliba out, the manager may have to rely on a less experienced or less consistent partner for Gabriel Magalhães at the back.
Bukayo Saka is also set to miss the match as he continues to recover from a hamstring issue. The England international has been one of Arsenal’s most consistent performers, and without him, the team lacks directness and creativity on the wings. His recovery timeline remains uncertain, making him doubtful for upcoming fixtures as well.
Kai Havertz, who underwent surgery after an injury in the season opener, is still unavailable. Though his form had been inconsistent, his versatility and physical presence gave Arsenal tactical flexibility. His absence further reduces midfield and attacking options for Arteta.
In a more long-term blow, Gabriel Jesus has been ruled out for the season due to an ACL injury. His absence affects Arsenal’s attacking depth and finishing ability, as Jesus often contributes more than just goals, playing a vital role in link-up play and pressing from the front.
There is some positive news, however. Martin Ødegaard, the club captain, is close to returning after a short layoff and has resumed training. He may be available for the Forest clash, and his return would be a welcome boost to Arsenal’s midfield creativity and control.
Christian Nørgaard is another potential returnee, having recovered from a recent knock. Though not a regular starter, his presence provides additional depth and defensive cover in midfield, especially if Ødegaard is not ready to start.
Meanwhile, Ben White remains a doubt. The defender has been recovering from a knee issue, and while he’s close to full fitness, Arteta may choose to be cautious given the upcoming fixture congestion.
This wave of injuries has left Arteta with serious selection dilemmas. Defensively, without Saliba and possibly White, Arsenal could be forced to turn to players like Takehiro Tomiyasu or Jakub Kiwior. In midfield, Ødegaard’s return could stabilize things, but any further setbacks would stretch the squad thin. Up front, the continued absence of Saka and Jesus limits both pace and experience.
Overall, Arsenal’s squad will be tested against Nottingham Forest, a side capable of capitalizing on any weakness. With Champions League fixtures and tougher Premier League matches on the horizon, managing player fitness will be as crucial as tactics. Arteta will need to rotate wisely, trust his squad depth, and hope key players return swiftly to keep the team’s ambitions on track.