A Blow to Arsenal’s Attack

Arsenal face yet another issue in their attacking line. Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Viktor Gyökeres will not be available for Saturday’s Premier League clash against Sunderland, after sustaining a hamstring injury during last weekend’s win over Burnley.

The Swedish striker, who also missed the 3-0 victory over Slavia Prague in the Champions League, underwent medical tests this week and has been ruled out of the Sweden squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers. “No news. We remain the same, nobody new can join the squad,” said Arteta in Friday’s press conference.

More Injuries but One Positive Sign

The Spanish manager explained that Gyökeres is one of eight first-team players who missed the game against the Czech side. However, he confirmed the return of Martín Zubimendi, who is back after serving a Champions League suspension.

Among the absentees are Kai Havertz, Martin Ødegaard, and Noni Madueke, all sidelined with knee injuries, along with Gabriel Martinelli, out with a thigh issue. Arteta remains optimistic that several of them could return in time for the North London Derby against Tottenham on November 23. “Some of them, maybe all, I don’t know. A lot of things need to go right in the next two weeks, but we’ll be very close to having most of them ready,” the coach explained.

Gabriel Jesus Steps Up

The good news comes from Gabriel Jesus, who returned to full team training for the first time since undergoing knee surgery in January. Although his comeback had initially been projected for 2026, his recovery has progressed faster than expected.

Arteta praised his striker’s attitude and energy: “He’s full of enthusiasm. The reaction from his teammates was amazing when he came back. Now it’s about taking things step by step, but it’s fantastic to have him with us again.”

With a tight schedule and injuries piling up, Arsenal will be hoping to endure these critical weeks before facing their fiercest rivals in North London.