Arsenal are grappling with multiple injuries as they approach the season’s first international break. Currently fourth in the Premier League, the Gunners’ momentum has been slowed by a 1-1 draw with Brighton, a game in which Declan Rice received a red card. The midfielder will now miss the north London derby against Tottenham, adding to the club’s injury woes.
One of the biggest concerns for Mikel Arteta’s squad is new signing Mikel Merino, who has yet to make his Arsenal debut. Merino, who joined the Gunners for a fee that could rise to £32 million, suffered a shoulder injury during his first training session. Arteta confirmed that the midfielder’s injury could keep him out for several weeks, with reports suggesting he could be sidelined for up to two months. The incident occurred during a collision with teammate Gabriel Magalhaes, which resulted in a possible small fracture. No definitive return date has been given for Merino, as further medical tests are required to assess the extent of the injury. It’s a frustrating setback for the 27-year-old, who had been eager to make an immediate impact.
Adding to Arsenal’s defensive concerns, Jurrien Timber gave fans a scare during the Brighton game when he had to be taken off in the second half. Timber, who was plagued by an ACL injury last season, initially appeared to be dealing with another setback. However, Arteta later played down the severity of the issue, explaining that Timber had cramped up after taking a knock in the first half. The defender is expected to return for Arsenal’s next match against Tottenham, giving the Gunners a boost as they head into a tough fixture list.
Gabriel Jesus, meanwhile, has had a limited start to the season after picking up a groin injury. The Brazilian striker managed only five minutes of play on the opening day against Wolves and has since missed Arsenal’s last two matches. However, there’s optimism that Jesus will recover in time for the north London derby. Arteta recently expressed hope that the forward would be available “pretty soon,” providing the club with a much-needed attacking option.
Takehiro Tomiyasu’s situation is more complicated. The Japanese international has been out with a knee injury and has yet to return to first-team training. Arteta has indicated that the recovery process has been slow, and no clear timeline has been given for Tomiyasu’s return to action. His absence continues to limit Arsenal’s defensive options.
Kieran Tierney, another player struggling with injury, remains sidelined with a hamstring issue he sustained while playing for Scotland at Euro 2024. The injury dashed any potential summer transfer for the left-back, leaving him at the club despite earlier rumors of a move. Arteta has urged Tierney to focus on his recovery, though a specific return date is still unknown.
As Arsenal gear up for the critical north London derby, Arteta faces significant challenges in managing these injuries. The international break offers some respite, but with key players sidelined, the Gunners will need to rely on squad depth in the coming weeks.