Latest Arsenal Injury Update: Gyokeres Set to Miss Sunderland Clash as Martinelli Nears Return

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided a detailed update on the club’s growing injury list ahead of Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Sunderland. The latest Arsenal injury update confirms that striker Viktor Gyokeres is unlikely to feature, while winger Gabriel Martinelli could make his return soon after missing the last three matches.

The Gunners have dealt with multiple setbacks in recent weeks but remain in superb form, securing ten straight wins across competitions and keeping nine clean sheets. Despite the absences, Arteta’s squad depth and consistency have helped Arsenal maintain momentum in both the Premier League and Champions League.

Arsenal’s Injury Picture Before Sunderland Match

Arteta revealed before the midweek Champions League win over Slavia Prague that Viktor Gyokeres would “definitely not be available” due to a muscle injury sustained in the 2–0 victory over Burnley. The Swedish striker is now set to undergo further scans, and his omission from Sweden’s upcoming World Cup qualifying squad confirms the severity of the issue.

With only 48 hours left before the Sunderland fixture, the 27-year-old’s chances of featuring remain minimal. Reports suggest that Arsenal are targeting his return after the international break, with hopes that he will be available for the North London Derby against Tottenham later this month.

Meanwhile, winger Gabriel Martinelli is edging closer to a return. The Brazilian suffered a late knock in the 1–0 win over Crystal Palace, forcing him to miss three consecutive games. According to The Athletic, both Martinelli and Gyokeres could return before the end of November if their recoveries continue smoothly.

Elsewhere, midfielders Martin Ødegaard, Kai Havertz, and Noni Madueke are all sidelined with knee issues. Arteta indicated that the trio might resume training later this month, depending on their progress. “I would say weeks, and some of them pretty soon, hopefully,” Arteta said. “After the international break, I think we’ll have some back — maybe not all, but quite close by then.”

In more positive news, forward Gabriel Jesus is reportedly in the final phase of his recovery from a serious knee injury sustained in January. The former Manchester City striker could rejoin full training soon and offer an additional attacking option in the second half of the campaign.

Squad Recovery Timeline and Arteta’s Options

Arteta’s management of player workloads has been praised, particularly given Arsenal’s demanding schedule across multiple competitions. Mikel Merino’s strong showing as a stand-in for Gyokeres against Slavia Prague — scoring twice — highlighted the squad’s resilience and adaptability.

Should Gyokeres and Martinelli remain sidelined for Sunderland, Arteta could turn to Leandro Trossard or Bukayo Saka in more central roles. The manager is expected to balance the lineup carefully to preserve fitness levels heading into the international break.

Arsenal’s focus remains on maintaining their winning run and closing the gap at the top of the Premier League table. A disciplined defensive structure and clinical attacking play have defined their recent form, and the return of several key players later this month could further strengthen their title ambitions.

As of now, Arsenal fans can expect Viktor Gyokeres to sit out the Sunderland clash, with Gabriel Martinelli nearing a comeback and other key names making progress toward full fitness. The coming weeks could see the squad return to near full strength ahead of a busy winter schedule.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Will Viktor Gyokeres play for Arsenal against Sunderland?

No, Gyokeres is expected to miss the Sunderland match due to a muscle injury and is undergoing further tests.

Q2: When will Gabriel Martinelli return from injury?

Martinelli is expected to return later this month, potentially after the international break if recovery continues as planned.

Q3: Which Arsenal players are still injured?

Arsenal’s current injury list includes Viktor Gyokeres, Gabriel Martinelli, Martin Ødegaard, Kai Havertz, Noni Madueke, and Gabriel Jesus (recovering).

Q4: Who could replace Gyokeres against Sunderland?

Mikel Arteta may rely on Leandro Trossard or Bukayo Saka in attacking roles during Gyokeres’ absence.

Q5: When will Arsenal’s injured players return?

Most players are targeting returns after the international break, with full recoveries expected by the end of November.