Arsenal could be without a number of players for the opening game of the 2026/27 Premier League season as the new campaign's schedule is announced. The Gunners' first title defence in 22 years reaches its first milestone with the fixture reveal on Friday, but the club may be short-handed due to the ongoing World Cup 2026 in North America.
World Cup 2026 Disruption
The tournament, which started just over a week ago, has a month left to run. The new Premier League season begins roughly four weeks after the World Cup final on July 19. While this may seem like sufficient time for rest, players who feature deep into the tournament may need a substantial period to recover before being ready for competitive action.
Arsenal endured a gruelling 2025/26 campaign, winning the league title but suffering a heartbreaking Champions League final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. As a result, some stars may not be fully prepared for the season opener on August 22.
Key Players at Risk
If both England and Spain reach the World Cup final, Arsenal could be without as many as seven players for the season opener. Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Noni Madueke, and Eberechi Eze are representing England, while David Raya, Mikel Merino, and Martin Zubimendi are with Spain.
Brazil, with two Arsenal players in defender Gabriel and winger Gabriel Martinelli, are also contenders. Other sole Arsenal representatives include William Saliba (France), Kai Havertz (Germany), Martin Odegaard (Norway), Viktor Gyokeres (Sweden), Leandro Trossard (Belgium), and Piero Hincapie (Ecuador).
Full List of Arsenal Players at World Cup 2026
- England: Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, Eberechi Eze, Noni Madueke
- France: William Saliba
- Germany: Kai Havertz
- Spain: David Raya, Mikel Merino, Martin Zubimendi
- Brazil: Gabriel, Gabriel Martinelli
- Norway: Martin Odegaard
- Sweden: Viktor Gyokeres
- Belgium: Leandro Trossard
- Ecuador: Piero Hincapie
Manager Mikel Arteta will be hoping for early exits for some of his players to ensure they are available for the start of the Premier League campaign.
