Full Breakdown
Arsenal Faces Injury Challenges Ahead of Champions League Opener Against Athletic Club
9/16/2025, 11:53:18 AM
Key Player Absences
Arsenal is set to begin its 2025-26 Champions League campaign against Athletic Club at the San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao, but the team will be significantly weakened due to injuries to several key players. Captain Martin Ødegaard, Bukayo Saka, Ben White, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus will all miss the match due to various injuries. Ødegaard suffered a shoulder injury during Arsenal's recent 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest, which forced him off the pitch just 18 minutes into the game. This marks his second shoulder injury this season, having previously been sidelined against Leeds United. Mikel Arteta confirmed that Ødegaard has remained in London for treatment and will not travel with the squad.
Saka has been absent since August 23 due to a hamstring injury, and Arteta indicated that it is still uncertain when he will return. "It's very early to understand when, which week he's going to be available, but he will certainly be pushing to be available as quickly as possible," Arteta stated. Ben White, who had returned to the matchday squad against Nottingham Forest, is also a doubt after missing training due to a minor issue.
Squad Depth and Recent Signings
Despite these setbacks, Arteta expressed confidence in the depth of his squad, bolstered by a summer spending spree of approximately £250 million. The manager noted that the team has learned from last season's semi-final exit against Paris Saint-Germain, emphasizing the importance of having a full squad available during critical moments. "We are good enough, that we can compete against any opposition on the day," Arteta remarked, highlighting the need for both luck and squad fitness in achieving success.
William Saliba, who missed the last match due to an ankle injury, has returned to training and could be available for selection. His presence would be crucial against Athletic Club's physical style of play. Additionally, Christian Norgaard, who has yet to make his competitive debut for Arsenal, has also returned to training, providing further options for Arteta.
Official Statements & Responses
Mikel Arteta addressed the media ahead of the match, confirming the absence of key players: "Gabby [Jesus], Kai [Havertz], Ben [White], and Martin [Ødegaard] are still out, unfortunately." He also provided updates on Saka's condition, stating, "There are still quite a lot of things to go through," indicating the ongoing nature of his recovery.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have pointed out that Arsenal's injury woes could hinder their ambitions in the Champions League, a competition they have yet to win. Arteta acknowledged the challenge, stating, "That tells you with our long history how difficult it is because we haven't won it yet and that's the opportunity." He emphasized the need for resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.
What's Next
Arsenal's immediate focus will be on securing a positive result against Athletic Club, but they will also need to prepare for a crucial Premier League clash against Manchester City shortly after. The team's ability to navigate this challenging period will be tested as they aim to build on last season's semi-final run and make a deeper impact in this year's Champions League.
