Arsenal sit proudly at the top of the Premier League table, six points clear after 25 matches and with four straight wins under their belt. However, Mikel Arteta’s squad is not without its problems. As the Gunners prepare for a tricky away trip to Brentford on Thursday, February 12, 2026, a fresh injury concern has emerged that could disrupt their rhythm in the title race.
The latest worry centres on Leandro Trossard. The Belgian forward was forced off during Arsenal’s comfortable 3-0 victory over Sunderland on Saturday. He received on-pitch treatment late in the game before being replaced. Early indications point to a possible calf issue, though Arsenal have yet to provide an official update. Trossard will be assessed in the coming days, leaving his availability for the Brentford match uncertain. This sudden setback adds to the growing list of attacking concerns for Arteta.
Bukayo Saka remains sidelined with a hip problem. The England international picked up the injury during the warm-up ahead of the win over Leeds United and has since missed matches against Chelsea (Carabao Cup) and Sunderland. Arteta provided a positive update, stating: “His hip is much better and hopefully very soon he will be with us.”
Saka is making good progress and is expected to be in contention for the home game against Wigan on Sunday, February 15, 2026. His return would be a major boost for Arsenal’s attack, especially as they push to maintain their lead at the summit.
Martin Ødegaard is the closest to a return. The Arsenal captain missed the wins over Chelsea and Sunderland with a minor injury described as a “niggle.” Arteta was upbeat when discussing the Norwegian: “Martin will be a matter of days.”
Many expect Ødegaard to feature in the important London derby against Brentford on Thursday. His creativity and leadership in midfield would be vital as Manchester City close the gap to just three points after their weekend result.
- Mikel Merino is a long-term casualty. The versatile midfielder underwent foot surgery following the defeat to Manchester United and is not expected back until May 2026. Arteta called it “a big blow” due to Merino’s ability to cover multiple positions.
- Youngster Max Dowman continues to recover from an ankle injury. He has not yet trained with the first team but is improving and should return in late February or early March.
Arteta faces a balancing act. While Arsenal remain in a commanding position in the Premier League and are still competing on multiple fronts, squad depth is being tested. The upcoming fixtures against Brentford and Wigan will be key tests of how the Gunners manage without their full complement of stars.
The manager has shown confidence in his squad’s resilience, but the new concern over Trossard adds an extra layer of caution ahead of a busy period. Arsenal fans will be hoping for positive news from the medical team in the next 48 hours.
Expected return dates (as of February 10, 2026):
- Martin Ødegaard → Likely vs Brentford (A) – Thursday, February 12
- Bukayo Saka → Targeting vs Wigan (H) – Sunday, February 15
- Leandro Trossard → To be assessed (doubt for Brentford)
- Mikel Merino → May 2026
- Max Dowman → Late February / early March
Stay tuned for further updates as Arteta addresses the media before the Brentford clash. The title race is heating up, and every player’s fitness could prove decisive.