Arsenal Injury Update: Saka, White, Nwaneri and Anticipated Return Timelines Before Manchester United Match.

Arsenal has shared updates on injuries to Bukayo Saka, Ben White, and Ethan Nwaneri, as well as their expected return dates, ahead of their clash with Manchester United.

With four players sidelined, manager Mikel Arteta faces selection challenges in upcoming matches, including an FA Cup tie against Manchester United and a North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur.

The injury situation has improved slightly with the return of Kai Havertz and Raheem Sterling in Arsenal’s recent 2-0 Carabao Cup loss to Newcastle United. Havertz started, while Sterling made a substitute appearance. The second leg of this semi-final is scheduled for early February.

Bukayo Saka

Saka suffered a hamstring injury during Arsenal’s 5-1 win over Crystal Palace in December. Following a procedure, Arteta stated that the winger would be sidelined for over two months, with the earliest possible return expected in March. Saka’s absence is a significant blow, as he has contributed five goals and ten assists in the Premier League this season.

Expected return date: Tuesday, April 1, against Fulham (H).

Ben White

White underwent surgery in November for a serious knee injury initially projected to sideline him for most of the season. However, his recovery is progressing better than expected. Arteta revealed that White remains “a few weeks away,” raising hopes of his return in time for February fixtures.

Expected return date: Sunday, February 2, against Manchester City (H).

Ethan Nwaneri

The 17-year-old Nwaneri picked up a muscle injury during Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Brighton last weekend. Despite his promising form, which includes two Premier League goals this season, Arteta confirmed Nwaneri would be unavailable for several weeks.

Expected return date: Sunday, February 2, against Manchester City (H).

Takehiro Tomiyasu

Tomiyasu is the closest among the injured players to returning. Sidelined since suffering a knee injury during international duty last summer, he was initially expected back in November but experienced setbacks. Arteta shared that Tomiyasu has resumed some on-pitch activities and could return this month if his recovery continues smoothly.

Expected return date: Saturday, January 18, against Aston Villa (H).

Arsenal’s injury challenges could impact their performance in a crucial period, with their depth and Arteta’s tactical adjustments likely to play key roles in navigating these fixtures.