Arsenal set to welcome back four key players from injury after international break

Arsenal have been dealt a series of early-season injury blows, with several key players sidelined for extended periods. Among those absent is team captain Martin Odegaard, as the Gunners navigate through a challenging stretch of the campaign.

The international break may have arrived at a favourable time for Mikel Arteta’s side, offering a chance for injured players to recover without the added pressure of missing more games.

Arteta has remained tight-lipped regarding the return of Odegaard, but recent footage released by the club shows the Norwegian making progress. Odegaard, who suffered an ankle injury during the September international break, was seen running in a rehabilitation chamber.

His leadership and creativity have been sorely missed, despite Arsenal’s unbeaten run so far. Close encounters in matches against Leicester and Southampton have highlighted how much the team could benefit from Odegaard’s playmaking ability.

Jurrien Timber and Ben White
In addition to Odegaard, right-backs Jurrien Timber and Ben White have also been sidelined with injuries. Timber has impressed with his technical ability when fit, while White’s consistent performances, especially in tandem with Saka, have been crucial to Arteta’s tactical setup. Both are considered among the best in their position in the Premier League.

Oleksandr Zinchenko, like Odegaard, has been missing since the last international break, but Arteta remains hopeful that the Ukrainian left-back will be ready to return when domestic action resumes. Although Arsenal have depth in the left-back position, Zinchenko’s unique qualities remain a valuable asset to the team. Takehiro Tomiyasu’s return further strengthens the squad’s defensive options.

With a demanding run of fixtures ahead, including matches against Liverpool, Inter Milan, Newcastle United, and Chelsea, Arsenal will need all hands on deck to maintain their title challenge.

The Gunners’ unbeaten start has demonstrated their resilience in the face of adversity, but the thin margin for error means that the return of key players could be vital to keeping their momentum going.

Arteta will be counting on the reintegration of his stars as they prepare for a critical stretch of games, knowing that even a single slip could dramatically shift the tone of their campaig