Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta
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Arsenal strong start to the 2025/26 Premier League season has been overshadowed by an escalating injury crisis, leaving Mikel Arteta with major selection headaches ahead of a crucial showdown with Liverpool.
The Gunners opened their campaign in impressive fashion, beating Manchester United 1-0 at Old Trafford before sweeping aside Leeds United 5-0 at the Emirates. However, those victories came at a cost, with several key players now sidelined just weeks into the new season.
Bukayo Saka was forced off against Leeds with a hamstring problem. While initial scans ruled out serious damage, the incident has sparked concern given the England international’s lengthy layoff last term.
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Captain Martin Odegaard also picked up a shoulder injury in the same fixture, raising further doubts over Arsenal’s midfield creativity.
Meanwhile, Kai Havertz remains unavailable with no clear return date, and Ben White is being assessed after taking a knock against United. Summer signing Christian Norgaard, who is yet to make his debut, is also nursing a minor muscle issue.
There was at least one positive update for Arsenal fans as Gabriel Jesus shared an encouraging video of his return to grass training. The Brazilian striker, sidelined since January with an ACL rupture, was seen jogging, working through agility drills, and striking the ball under the supervision of the club’s medical staff.
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His short message,‘It’s been seven months of pain, uncertainty, and anxiety. Today, I finally feel light — like a child playing football again. GOD IS GREAT.”
It’s been seven months of pain, uncertainty, and anxiety. Today, I finally feel light — like a child playing football again.
GOD IS GREAT. 🙏🏽💪🏾 pic.twitter.com/nr74tGdtV9
— Gabriel Jesus (@gabrieljesus9) August 24, 2025
Jesus’ return comes at a pivotal moment, with Arsenal competing on multiple fronts and facing mounting injury troubles. If Havertz remains sidelined, the 28-year-old forward could be called upon to share the attacking burden with summer signing Viktor Gyokeres, as the Gunners look to sustain their early momentum in the title race.
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