News
Five Key Players Set to Miss Out in Arsenal vs. Dinamo Zagreb

As Arsenal prepare to host Dinamo Zagreb in a crucial Champions League clash tonight, a report by The Standard Sport has revealed that the Gunners will be without five key players due to injury. Mikel Arteta’s squad has been hit hard by fitness issues, with Gabriel Jesus, Bukayo Saka, William Saliba, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Ben White all unavailable for selection.
This setback could challenge Arsenal’s depth and adaptability as they aim to secure a vital win in their European campaign. Here’s a closer look at the absentees and what their absence means for the team.
Gabriel Jesus (Knee)
The Brazilian striker has been sidelined with a knee injury, a significant blow to Arsenal’s attacking options. Jesus’ work rate, link-up play, and ability to press from the front have been instrumental to Arsenal’s system under Arteta. In his absence, the Gunners will likely rely on Kai Havertz or Eddie Nketiah to lead the line. While both players have shown flashes of quality, neither fully replicates Jesus’ unique skill set.
Bukayo Saka (Hamstring)

LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 15: Bukayo Saka of Arsenal looks on from the sidelines after suffering a hamstring injury prior to the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Tottenham Hotspur FC at Emirates Stadium on January 15, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Saka’s absence is perhaps the most concerning for Arsenal fans. The winger, who has been one of Arsenal’s most consistent performers over the past few seasons, is sidelined with a hamstring issue. Saka’s creativity, pace, and ability to deliver in crucial moments have made him indispensable for the Gunners. His injury leaves a significant void on the right flank, which Raheem Sterling or Reiss Nelson will likely be tasked with filling.
William Saliba (Hamstring)

LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 08: William Saliba of Arsenal acknowlegdes the fans after the Premier League match between Fulham FC and Arsenal FC at Craven Cottage on December 08, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Saliba’s hamstring injury continues to trouble Arsenal’s defensive stability. The French international has been a cornerstone of Arsenal’s backline, bringing composure, physicality, and exceptional reading of the game. Without him, Arteta is expected to deploy Jakub Kiwior alongside Gabriel Magalhães in central defense. While Kiwior has shown promise, the absence of Saliba’s leadership and experience will be keenly felt, especially in high-pressure situations.
Takehiro Tomiyasu (Knee)

LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 28: Takehiro Tomiyasu of Arsenal is challenged by Cristian Romero of Tottenham Hotspur during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal FC at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on April 28, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Tomiyasu’s versatility and defensive reliability make him a valuable asset for Arsenal. Whether deployed as a right-back, left-back, or even as a center-back, the Japanese international has often provided Arteta with tactical flexibility. His knee injury leaves Arsenal short of defensive depth, with Thomas Partey or Cedric Soares likely to fill in at right-back.
Ben White (Knee)

LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 27: Ben White of Arsenal before the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Liverpool FC at Emirates Stadium on October 27, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
White’s knee issue further compounds Arsenal’s defensive woes. The former Brighton defender has been a consistent presence at right-back this season, combining defensive solidity with attacking contributions. His absence will force Arteta to rely on alternative options, which could impact Arsenal’s ability to control the game from wide areas.
What This Means for Arsenal
The absence of five key players will test Arsenal’s squad depth and resilience. With a packed January schedule, Arteta must find a way to maintain performance levels despite these setbacks. The manager is expected to rotate his squad, with the likes of Kieran Tierney, Leandro Trossard, and Martin Ødegaard stepping up to lead the charge.
Tonight’s game against Dinamo Zagreb is a must-win for Arsenal, and the Gunners will need to show character and adaptability to overcome their injury challenges. Fans will be hoping for a strong performance from the available squad as Arsenal look to secure a crucial Champions League victory at the Emirates.
-
Transfer News3 days ago
Arteta reveals why Arsenal failed to sign any person in the January transfer window
-
News3 days ago
Gabriel Martinelli Sends Bold Warning to Newcastle Ahead of Arsenal Showdown
-
News3 days ago
Arteta reveals his secret plan to beat Liverpool to the Premier League title
-
News3 days ago
Arteta reveals how one important player will miss Arsenal’s game against Newcastle United
-
News2 days ago
Arsenal vs. Newcastle: Team Lineup as Gunners Aim for Crucial Win
-
News2 days ago
Arsenal’s Official Lineup vs. Newcastle United Confirmed – Arteta Makes Bold Selection
-
News2 days ago
Disaster for Arsenal! Four Key Stars Ruled Out Ahead of Crucial Newcastle Clash
-
News20 hours ago
Arsenal’s Carabao Cup Curse: A look at 30 years worth of fixtures where they’ve lost