Arsenal are heading into Wednesday’s crucial North London Derby against Tottenham with a growing injury list that has significantly impacted their season. While some players are expected to return, others remain sidelined for the long term, leaving Mikel Arteta with a challenging selection dilemma.
Defenders
- Jurrien Timber: The Dutch defender left the field during the FA Cup clash against Manchester United with concerns over a potential hamstring injury. However, Arteta confirmed it was just cramp, and Timber is expected to be available for the derby.
- Riccardo Calafiori: The left-back missed Sunday’s game due to a minor muscle issue. Arteta suggested the injury is not serious, but his availability remains a doubt for Wednesday.
- Ben White: Out since November following knee surgery, White will not feature against Spurs.
- Takehiro Tomiyasu: The versatile defender is another long-term absentee after undergoing knee surgery earlier in the season.
Midfielders
- Jorginho: The Italian midfielder suffered a minor calf issue during extra time against Manchester United but is expected to be available for the derby. However, he is unlikely to start, with Declan Rice and Thomas Partey fit and ready.
- Ethan Nwaneri: The young midfielder, who had been filling in for Bukayo Saka, is sidelined with a muscle injury. He is expected to return at the end of January.
Forwards
- Gabriel Jesus: The Brazilian striker’s injury woes continue. Jesus tore his ACL during the FA Cup defeat and is expected to miss the remainder of the season.
- Bukayo Saka: Arsenal’s talisman underwent hamstring surgery late in 2024 and is not expected back until March.
- Raheem Sterling: The winger has recovered from a knee injury and returned to action at the weekend, offering a much-needed boost to Arsenal’s attack.
Arsenal Players Out of the North London Derby
| Player | Injury | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Jurrien Timber | Hamstring | Available |
| Riccardo Calafiori | Muscle | Doubt |
| Ben White | Knee | Out |
| Takehiro Tomiyasu | Knee | Out |
| Ethan Nwaneri | Muscle | Out |
| Jorginho | Calf | Available |
| Gabriel Jesus | Knee | Out |
| Bukayo Saka | Hamstring | Out |
Impact on Arsenal’s Lineup
With Jesus and Saka unavailable, Arteta will likely rely on Raheem Sterling, Leandro Trossard, and Gabriel Martinelli to lead the attack. In defense, Myles Lewis-Skelly could step in at left-back if Calafiori is not fit, while Timber should start despite his recent scare.
Arsenal’s injury struggles have left them vulnerable, but the return of key players like Sterling and Jorginho could provide a much-needed lift as they aim to reignite their season in this pivotal derby.
