Arsenal Injury Round-Up: Saliba Concern, Saka Optimism Ahead of Nottingham Forest Clash

As Arsenal prepare to host Nottingham Forest at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, September 13, Mikel Arteta faces a delicate balancing act with several key players nursing injuries. With the international break offering a brief respite, the Gunners will be hoping for positive news on the fitness front before their 12:30pm kick-off against Nuno Espirito Santo’s side.

Here’s the latest on Arsenal’s injury situation and potential return dates for their sidelined stars.

🛑 William Saliba – Ankle Worry

Saliba’s early exit against Liverpool on August 31 raised alarm bells, with the French defender limping off after just five minutes. Arteta later confirmed a sprained left ankle, forcing Saliba to withdraw from international duty.

“He twisted his ankle during the warm-up… I could see that he couldn't cope and we had to get him out,” Arteta explained.

With a recovery timeline of three to four weeks, Saliba is expected to miss the Forest fixture and could return in October.

🗓️ Expected Return: October

🌟 Bukayo Saka – Signs of Hope

Saka’s hamstring scare against Leeds on August 23 was a worrying sight for fans, especially given his previous injury history. Fortunately, Arteta confirmed that surgery won’t be required this time.

“It’s not as bad as the previous one… he felt something, so he will be out for a couple of weeks.”

The England international is targeting a return against Manchester City later this month, with the break offering a chance to rest and recover.

🗓️ Expected Return: September 21 vs Manchester City

🩺 Kai Havertz – Surgery Setback

Havertz’s knee injury required minor surgery on August 28, sidelining the German forward indefinitely. Arteta expressed sympathy for the player, who had never suffered a serious injury before.

“Very unfortunate, very sad for him… we lose another big player for many, many weeks.”

With no clear timeline, Havertz’s return remains uncertain.

🗓️ Expected Return: Unknown

🔄 Christian Norgaard – Nearing Fitness

Norgaard has missed Arsenal’s opening three Premier League matches but could be in contention for the Forest game. Arteta remains cautiously optimistic.

“Let’s see how they evolve… this is a chance to keep them involved in the game.”

🗓️ Expected Return: September 13 vs Nottingham Forest

🧱 Ben White – Minor Knock

White was substituted during Arsenal’s win over Manchester United and has since missed games against Leeds and Liverpool. Like Norgaard, he’s being monitored closely.

“Let’s see how they evolve… another day to assess.”

🗓️ Expected Return: September 13 vs Nottingham Forest

🔄 Gabriel Jesus – Long Road Back

Jesus continues his recovery from an ACL injury sustained last season. The Brazilian has been active on social media, sharing updates of his progress.

“Today, I finally feel light — like a child playing football again.”

While his enthusiasm is encouraging, a return before December remains unlikely.

🗓️ Expected Return: December

🧠 Arteta’s Challenge

With several players on the mend, Arteta will be hoping for a clean bill of health post-international duty. The Forest clash could see the return of White and Norgaard, while Saka’s comeback against City would be a major boost. Saliba’s absence will test Arsenal’s defensive depth, but Mosquera’s promising debut offers hope.

The next few weeks will be crucial as the Gunners aim to maintain momentum and navigate a demanding fixture list with resilience and tactical flexibility.