Arsenal Boosted By Returning Stars After Latest Injury Update

Arsenal are hoping to see some big names return this weekend, with the latest injury update bringing positive news for Gunners fans.

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal side have been struggling with something of an injury crisis as of late.

The Premier League leaders’ squad has been stretched thin at a crucial stage of the season, with last week’s damaging 2-1 defeat by Aston Villa cutting their lead to just two points over Manchester City.

Former Gunners star Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain praised Arsenal’s mentality this week, but they need to show that when the pressure ramps up.

Arsenal therefore need to take maximum points at the weekend.

They will fully expect to, though, given they host bottom side Wolves – who have taken just two points this season.

And with some of their top stars nearing a comeback, there could be a welcome boost on Saturday.

Six Champions League wins in a row. pic.twitter.com/UyCTWPROHM

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) December 10, 2025

Mikel Arteta Low on Options After Arsenal Injury Update

Declan Rice – Expected Back Vs Wolves (13 Dec)

The absence of midfield talisman Declan Rice for Wednesday’s CHampion League fixture sparked concern, but the England international is not injured.

Rice had been feeling unwell after the Villa match, and was rested in midweek in order to recover.

Arteta explained:“Declan was ill, he hasn’t travelled with us. He will have a couple of days to rest and get his body right.”

Rice is expected to recover in time for the Wolves game and should return to the starting XI.

Jurrien Timber – Expected Back Vs Wolves (13 Dec)

Timber missed the Brugge match due to what Arteta described as a “bad kick” suffered against Aston Villa.

Although the injury is not believed to be serious, it came too soon for him to feature midweek.

“For Jurrien, it was too early,” Arteta confirmed.

Arsenal remain hopeful he will be ready for Saturday.

William Saliba – Expected Back Vs Wolves (13 Dec)

The French defender has been missing since late November.

Arteta suggested last week he was only “days” away, but he has since missed the Villa and Brugge fixtures.

“William is still not available,” Arteta said on Tuesday.

However, Arsenal expect him to return to training late this week and he has a strong chance of being involved against Wolves.

Leandro Trossard – Unknown Return Date

Trossard’s recurring calf issue forced him out of the Brugge trip.

Having returned briefly against Villa, where he scored before being substituted late on, he suffered yet another setback.

“Leo picked up another knock. I don’t expect it to be long, but he cannot be here,” Arteta said.

He remains doubtful, and no firm return date has been given.

Gabriel – Late December to January

But while some Arsenal players are nearing a return, others are a while away just yet, including Gabriel.

The Brazilian centre-back remains sidelined with an adductor injury sustained on international duty.

Arteta has previously called Gabriel “the leader of our backline” and admitted the club must wait “weeks” for his return.

A comeback around late December or January appears likely.

Kai Havertz – Late December to January

Havertz is some way off a return after a setback in his knee injury recovery.

Arteta said earlier this month it would be a “matter of weeks.”

As a result, Gunners fans can expect him to make a comeback closer to the new year.

Cristhian Mosquera – Out Until 2026 (Unknown Specific Date)

Mosquera’s ankle injury has been described by Arteta as “complicated”, ruling him out for at least six to eight weeks.

“He’s going to be out for weeks unfortunately, much more than we expected,” said the Arsenal boss.

He will not feature again until 2026.

Max Dowman – Expected Return February

Fifteen-year-old midfielder Max Dowman’s injury was suffered during a behind-closed-doors game against Manchester United.

The youngster has damaged ankle ligaments, though is not expected to require surgery.

Arteta confirmed he will miss “weeks”, and Arsenal estimate a return in February.

When Will Arsenal Stars Return?

Arsenal’s injury list and expected return date:

• Declan Rice – 13 Dec Vs Wolves
• Jurrien Timber – 13 Dec Vs Wolves
• William Saliba – 13 Dec Vs Wolves
• Leandro Trossard – Unknown (short-term)
• Gabriel – Late December/January
• Kai Havertz – Late December/January
• Cristhian Mosquera – 2026 (six-eight weeks)
• Max Dowman – February

This Arsenal injury update is a positive one, with some key players coming back at just the right time.

With the title race heating up, it’s imperative they take maximum points at every opportunity, starting with Wolves on Saturday.