Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has delivered a mixed bag of injury news, expressing his desperation to see summer signing Kai Havertz back in action while providing contrasting timelines for two key defenders.
Havertz Return Still Weeks Away
In a significant blow for the Gunners, Arteta confirmed that forward Kai Havertz is yet to feature this season and his return remains a "matter of weeks" away. The German international, a major acquisition, has been sidelined since the campaign began, leaving a noticeable gap in Arteta's attacking plans.
"We are desperate to have him back," Arteta admitted, highlighting the importance of the player to his system. The manager's comments, made on Tuesday 2nd December 2025, underscore the prolonged wait Arsenal fans face to see their new star in the famous red and white.
Defensive Duo Face Different Paths
The situation in defence presents a clearer, yet still concerning, picture. Centre-back William Saliba is battling a minor "niggle" which forced him to miss the bruising Sunday clash against Chelsea. However, Arteta provided a sliver of good news, indicating the Frenchman's issue should be resolved in a "matter of days."
In stark contrast, fellow defender Gabriel Magalhaes faces a much longer spell on the treatment table. The Brazilian sustained a thigh injury while on international duty and is now expected to be out for "weeks." This timeline suggests the influential defender could be ruled out until after the Christmas period, dealing a severe blow to Arsenal's backline stability.
New Signings Step Into the Breach
With Saliba absent and Gabriel out long-term, Arteta was forced to turn to his summer defensive recruits against Chelsea. The pairing of Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie deputised at Stamford Bridge and are likely to continue their partnership for the crucial midweek fixture against Brentford.
This unexpected run of games offers the new signings a chance to prove their worth ahead of schedule, but it also tests the squad's depth during a congested part of the season. Arteta will be hoping Saliba's return is as swift as predicted to bring experience back to a reshuffled defence.
The cumulative effect of these injuries, particularly the extended absences of Havertz and Gabriel, presents a serious early-season challenge for Arteta as he aims to keep Arsenal competitive on multiple fronts.
