Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has delivered a fresh update on the club’s injury situation ahead of their next run of fixtures, with key players still working their way back to full fitness.The Gunners were held to a 1-1 draw against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, a match in which defensive leader William Saliba was a late omission after picking up a minor issue just hours before kickoff.
Softfootball understands that Saliba’s absence against Chelsea was precautionary, and the club expect him to return shortly as the issue is not considered serious.
According to top journalist Fabrizio Romano via his official X handle, Arteta confirmed that one of his most important attacking players will remain sidelined for a while longer, saying;
Kai Havertz is still weeks away. We are all desperate to have him. I mean it is a player that, personally, I love so much for what he brings to the team — his character, his personality. I see him suffer, being outside.
The Arsenal boss also delivered updates on two other squad members who could be back sooner than expected. According to Fabrizio Romano via his official X handle, Arteta said progress has been made, and there is optimism within the camp. Romano posted;
Arteta: For William Saliba and Leandro Trossard, hopefully it’s matter of days.
For Saliba, this one is very bizarre injury… but hopefully it will be short time out.
Meanwhile, Softfootball earlier reported that Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann also provided a separate update on Kai Havertz’s recovery, stating that the midfielder is progressing well and is expected to be fully fit again by the start of 2026, a timeline that aligns with Arsenal’s cautious approach.
Arsenal will now monitor all three players closely as they prepare for a demanding stretch of fixtures in their Premier League campaign.
