Arsenal fans were left with mixed emotions after their narrow 1–0 victory over Crystal Palace on Saturday night. While the win solidified their position at the top of the Premier League table, it came at a cost. Manager Mikel Arteta walked off the pitch with three points in hand but several injury concerns that could significantly affect his plans for the next fixtures against Brighton and Burnley.
The match itself was intense and physically demanding, with Crystal Palace pressing high and testing Arsenal’s defensive structure. Eberechi Eze, ironically facing his former team, scored the decisive goal that gave the Gunners the victory. However, beneath the celebration, there were visible concerns on the Arsenal bench as key players were seen limping off or receiving medical attention during and after the game.
Arteta’s frustration was evident in his post-match press conference. “It was a hard-fought win, but it came with problems,” he admitted. “We made three forced substitutions because of fitness issues, and that’s something we’ll need to assess carefully.”
The first blow came when William Saliba was taken off at halftime. The French defender, known for his composure and strength, appeared to be struggling with discomfort in his leg. Arteta later confirmed, “Willy had to come off after the first half. There were a couple of issues related to his substitution that we’ll evaluate.” His replacement, Cristian Mosquera, filled in well, but losing Saliba for any length of time would be a serious setback for Arsenal’s backline.
Declan Rice, another vital figure in the team, also exited late in the game after clutching his upper right leg. The midfielder needed assistance from the physios and looked visibly in pain. Arteta revealed, “Declan was having difficulties from the first half after a knock. We’re not sure if it’s his calf or Achilles, but we’ll know more after the scans.” His absence could disrupt Arsenal’s midfield balance, as Rice’s defensive positioning and leadership have been key this season.
The problems didn’t stop there. Bukayo Saka, who had not trained much due to illness, started the game but was substituted around the hour mark. “He made a big effort to be available today,” Arteta said, praising the winger’s determination. “He hasn’t been fully fit, but he wanted to help the team.” Saka’s expected return is optimistic, with medical reports suggesting he could be ready for the Brighton game on October 29.
Gabriel Martinelli also raised concerns when he was seen limping after the final whistle. The Brazilian was substituted and walked straight down the tunnel accompanied by the medical staff. “We’ll assess him,” Arteta commented. “He felt something — we don’t know if it’s muscular, but we’ll get clarity soon.” Arsenal’s attacking depth will be tested if both Saka and Martinelli miss time simultaneously.
Adding to the growing list, Riccardo Calafiori had to be withdrawn just minutes before the final whistle. The Italian defender seemed uncomfortable and was replaced by Myles Lewis-Skelly. Arteta confirmed the concern: “Yes, him too. We’ll have to see how that develops.”
Beyond the matchday injuries, Arsenal continues to cope with long-term absentees. Martin Ødegaard, the captain, remains out with a lingering knee injury that has sidelined him for the last three matches. Arteta provided an update: “He’s improving well and starting to participate in light activities, but he’s not ready yet. Hopefully, after the international break, we’ll have him back.” His expected return date is November 23, possibly against Tottenham.
Kai Havertz, who underwent knee surgery earlier in the season, is also edging closer to recovery. “The long-term players are progressing well,” Arteta noted. “They are starting specific training, and their motivation to return is incredible.” The German midfielder is targeting a return sometime in November, which could boost Arsenal’s attacking options significantly.
Noni Madueke and Gabriel Jesus round off the injury list. Madueke has been sidelined since September after picking up a knee issue against Manchester City, while Jesus continues his recovery from a serious ACL injury suffered nine months ago. Both players are reportedly back on the training pitch and working under the supervision of Arsenal’s medical staff. Jesus said, “I’m feeling fantastic. My knee is responding well, but I need to be careful not to rush. When the time is right, I’ll be ready.”
Arteta now faces a crucial period where squad depth will be tested more than ever. Arsenal’s next two matches come within six days, and the manager must balance recovery with performance to avoid worsening the injury crisis. The Gunners currently lead the league by four points, but maintaining that edge will depend heavily on how quickly these key players return.
Injuries have often derailed promising seasons in the past, but Arteta insists his team has the mentality to overcome adversity. “It’s football,” he said. “You adapt, you fight, and you trust the players you have. We’ve built a team that doesn’t depend on one or two individuals — it’s about collective strength.”
With optimism tempered by concern, Arsenal supporters will be watching closely for updates over the coming days. The club’s medical team is expected to release a full injury assessment ahead of the Brighton match — and fans are hoping for good news from North London.
