Arsenal Football Club has faced several fitness concerns during the October international break, with several players returning to the club carrying injuries or knocks.
Arsenal is one of the clubs hit hardest as it prepares to return to Premier League action against Leeds United on October 10, 2026. Attention will now turn to the fitness of the affected players and whether they will be available for selection.
Arsenal players affected by injury during the international break
Kai Havertz: He was among the players to leave international duty early after suffering a muscular issue while with Germany. Arsenal will assess the forward upon his return, although the problem is not currently considered to be a long-term injury.
Martin Ødegaard: He also suffered an ankle scare while representing Norway. The Arsenal captain took a heavy challenge, but scans reportedly showed no significant damage, providing some relief for the club.
Ezri Konsa: The former Aston Villa player returned to Arsenal from England duty after picking up a quad problem. The issue is understood to be minor, but the defender will undergo further assessment at club level.
Max Dowman: He was another Arsenal player to withdraw from international duty after picking up an injury while representing England Under-19s. The teenager’s issue is not believed to be serious.
There are also concerns surrounding Christos Tzolis, who suffered a Grade 1 hamstring strain while playing for Greece. The injury could keep him out for approximately two to three weeks. Meanwhile, Declan Rice was withdrawn from England duty because of minor physical concerns and was managed cautiously by the national team.
The timing of the injuries will be a concern for Arsenal, with the Premier League campaign set to resume immediately after the international break.
Mikel Arteta will hope that the majority of his players can return to full fitness before Arsenal face Leeds United on October 10.
The club is expected to provide further updates as the players return to London and undergo medical assessments. However, for Arsenal, the priority will be avoiding any long-term setbacks while ensuring the squad is ready for a busy run of fixtures.