Arsenal player recovering from injury returns to full first-team training.

Arsenal Injury Update: Latest on Saliba, Calafiori, and Nwaneri’s Return Timelines

Arsenal’s challenging season continues as injuries to key players hamper their efforts in various competitions. Despite a momentary uplift in title aspirations after their victory over Tottenham, the Gunners stumbled again, allowing Aston Villa to claw back from a 2-0 deficit to draw 2-2. This result leaves Arsenal six points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, who also hold a game in hand.

Arsenal’s recent elimination from the FA Cup and their uphill battle to overturn a two-goal deficit against Newcastle in the Carabao Cup semi-final further complicate their season. Alongside debates about the lack of a traditional striker, injuries to pivotal players are proving to be a significant setback. Below is an update on their current injury list:

William Saliba: The defender missed the Villa match after sustaining hamstring discomfort during the Tottenham game. Reports suggest he could be sidelined for around two weeks, with a potential return in early February.

Riccardo Calafiori: Absent in recent matches, including those against Manchester United and Tottenham, the Italian defender is nearing recovery. He could return between January and February 2025.

Ethan Nwaneri: The young prospect has been out since scoring in the January draw with Brighton. Although he has resumed training, his return date remains unclear.

Takehiro Tomiyasu: With only six minutes played this season due to a knee injury, Tomiyasu’s return timeline is still unknown.

Ben White: Recovering from November knee surgery, White is progressing well. Arteta is optimistic about his return soon, though no specific date has been set.

Bukayo Saka: Saka underwent surgery for a hamstring injury sustained in December against Crystal Palace. His earliest expected return is March, though no exact timeline has been confirmed.

Gabriel Jesus: Sidelined by an ACL injury suffered during the FA Cup clash with Manchester United, Jesus is unlikely to play again this season. A return is anticipated by summer 2025.

As Arsenal navigates a difficult period, the squad’s ability to cope with these absences will be critical in determining their success in the remainder of the season.