Arsenal injury latest: Martin Odegaard, Riccardo Calafiori and more

Arsenal injury update ahead of crucial run of fixtures

Arsenal’s comfortable 4-0 FA Cup win over Wigan should have been a straightforward afternoon, yet it came with fresh injury questions that could shape the coming weeks. Mikel Arteta welcomed William Saliba back into the starting line up, but new worries surrounding Riccardo Calafiori and Ben White added a layer of uncertainty around an already stretched defence.

The broader picture matters for Arsenal as they balance domestic ambitions with squad fitness. With Martin Odegaard also managing a knee issue, the medical room continues to influence selection decisions as much as form or tactics.

Defensive worries after Wigan victory

Riccardo Calafiori was forced to withdraw late during the warm up, prompting a reshuffle before kick off. It marks the second time this season that the defender has been unable to start after pre match issues, a frustrating pattern for both player and manager.

Arteta offered a cautious update, saying: “Yeah, him and Ben [White] are the only doubts. We have to wait and see in the next 48 hours how things develop.” The uncertainty leaves Arsenal supporters waiting for clarity, particularly with fixtures coming thick and fast.

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Ben White’s situation appears slightly more encouraging. The defender impressed before going down late on, yet he was soon seen sitting comfortably on the bench and later posted “No injuries.” on Instagram after the match. Despite that message, Arteta’s comments suggest Arsenal will assess him carefully before making any decisions on his return.

Martin Odegaard fitness update

Martin Odegaard remains central to Arsenal’s rhythm, and any concern around the captain inevitably draws attention. He completed the full 90 minutes in the 1-1 draw against Brentford but was later spotted limping, which ruled him out of the Wigan fixture.

In the matchday programme, Odegaard explained the moment that caused the issue: “I picked up a bit of an injury when they [Brentford] scored their goal, but hopefully it’s not too bad. We’ll see how it goes in the build up to today’s game and over the next few days.

“I tried to clear the ball as it came down, but instead kicked into the player a bit, and ended up over stretching my leg, which pinched the knee. I was able to carry on, but on Friday morning it was very sore, so I was worried of course, but thankfully it looks like it’s not too bad.”

Arteta added further context after the cup tie, saying: “With Martin, we’ll have to wait and see. He picked that knock on the action when we conceded the goal and he wasn’t fit for today.” Arsenal’s creative balance often depends on Odegaard’s presence, so his recovery will be closely monitored.

Squad depth tested in attack and midfield

Kai Havertz has also returned to the sidelines after a muscular problem, just as he began to rediscover momentum. Arteta explained the setback at the time, stating: “After the game we played against Sunderland, Kai felt a little niggle, so we need to wait and see how long he will be out.” His absence reduces Arsenal’s attacking rotation, especially with several important league fixtures approaching.

Meanwhile, Mikel Merino faces a longer recovery following surgery on a stress fracture. The club confirmed that he will be out for an extended period, with Arteta emphasising patience during the healing process. “Doctors were really happy.

“Starting a long process, you’re talking about bone healing. You need to be patient and respect the timeframe. We’re talking about months, three, four or five we don’t know.”

Youth boost offers Arsenal encouragement

One positive note arrives through Max Dowman, who is nearing a comeback after two months out. Arteta shared an optimistic update, saying: “He’s doing really well, about a week away.” The youngster’s return could offer valuable depth at a time when Arsenal’s senior options remain uncertain.

For now, the spotlight stays on Riccardo Calafiori and Martin Odegaard as Arsenal navigate another demanding stretch of the season. Injuries may shift the narrative week by week, yet the squad continues to show resilience when called upon.