🔥 FITNESS UPDATE: Arsenal Injury Report — Saliba, Rice, Ødegaard, Martinelli, Havertz, Madueke, and Gabriel Jesus.

Arsenal fans experienced mixed emotions following their narrow 1–0 win over Crystal Palace on Saturday night. The victory kept them at the top of the Premier League standings, but it came at a steep cost. Manager Mikel Arteta, though relieved with the three points, was visibly troubled by the injury list that grew longer by the end of the match. With crucial games against Brighton and Burnley ahead, the Spaniard finds himself facing a selection crisis that could disrupt Arsenal’s rhythm.

 

The match was a bruising battle, defined by Crystal Palace’s aggressive pressing and Arsenal’s need to stay composed under pressure. Eberechi Eze, ironically playing against his former club, netted the winning goal that sealed the three points. Yet, even as fans celebrated, there was unease on the bench — several key players were spotted limping or receiving treatment during and after the game.

 

Arteta’s irritation was clear in his post-match comments. “It was a tough win, but not an easy one to enjoy,” he admitted. “We had to make three forced substitutions because of fitness concerns, and we’ll need to analyze those situations carefully.” It was a win overshadowed by uncertainty — a victory that came with as much anxiety as relief.

 

The first concern came with William Saliba, who didn’t return after halftime. Known for his calmness and control at the back, the Frenchman appeared to be nursing a leg issue. Arteta confirmed the discomfort but declined to specify the severity, saying only that the medical team would evaluate him further. Cristian Mosquera stepped in solidly, but losing Saliba for any significant stretch would be a massive blow to Arsenal’s defensive setup.

 

Declan Rice was the next casualty. The England international limped off late in the match after struggling with what looked like a leg injury. Arteta explained that Rice had been uncomfortable since the first half after taking a knock, but they’re unsure whether it’s a calf or Achilles problem until the scan results come in. His absence would leave a void in midfield leadership and defensive balance — something Arsenal can’t afford right now.

 

Bukayo Saka, despite being unwell all week, pushed himself to start. He gave everything for an hour before being withdrawn. Arteta praised his resilience, saying, “He wasn’t fully fit but wanted to help.” Thankfully, reports suggest Saka’s issue isn’t serious, and he’s expected to return for the Brighton clash. However, Gabriel Martinelli raised fresh alarm bells when he limped off and headed straight down the tunnel with the medics. Arteta confirmed that he “felt something muscular,” and further tests will determine the extent of the problem.

 

To compound Arsenal’s troubles, Riccardo Calafiori also came off injured toward the end. The Italian defender appeared uncomfortable and was replaced by Myles Lewis-Skelly. Arteta didn’t sound optimistic, admitting that Calafiori would also need assessment. Meanwhile, Martin Ødegaard continues to miss action due to a knee issue that has kept him out for three matches. The captain is improving slowly, with a possible return after the international break, likely against Tottenham.

 

Kai Havertz, who recently had knee surgery, is making progress in rehab and is aiming for a November comeback, while Noni Madueke and Gabriel Jesus are both edging closer to full recovery. Madueke’s been out since September with a knee knock, and Jesus is returning from a long-term ACL injury but insists he’s feeling strong again. With back-to-back games on the horizon, Arteta must now rotate wisely and pray his squad holds firm. Arsenal remain four points clear at the top — but their ability to stay there depends on how fast their stars heal.