Massive Blow For Bournemouth As Attacker Set For Surgery And Lengthy Layoff

Bournemouth have suffered a major injury blow after it was confirmed that attacker Justin Kluivert requires surgery. 

Dutch international Kluivert, son of Netherlands legend Patrick, suffered a nasty-looking knee injury against Arsenal on Saturday.

The Cherries lost 3-2 at home to the league leaders.

Goals from Evanilson and Eli Junior Kroupi weren’t enough for a point as Mikel Arteta’s Gunners netted through Gabriel Magalhães before a Declan Rice brace secured victory for the visitors.

But on top of the loss, the club have now confirmed the severity of Kluivert’s injury.

Justin Kluivert Requires Surgery On Knee Injury

It’s a massive loss for Bournemouth ahead of Wednesday’s game against Tottenham Hotspur.

Forward Antoine Semenyo rejected an approach from Tottenham in recent weeks, but is now expected to join Manchester City.

With The Ghanaian’s availability uncertain ahead of his probable move, Kluivert’s injury could not have come at a worse time.

Manager Andoni Iraola is short of options on the flanks, and will face Spurs without two of his most potent weapons.

In a statement on the club’s website, Bournemouth confirmed Kluivert will need surgery.

AFC Bournemouth can confirm that Justin Kluivert will undergo surgery after sustaining an injury to his left knee.

— AFC Bournemouth (@afcbournemouth) January 6, 2026

The statement read: “AFC Bournemouth can confirm that Justin Kluivert will undergo surgery after sustaining an injury to his left knee following the weekend’s Premier League fixture against Arsenal.

“The 26-year-old will consequently face a period away from the pitch as part of his recovery.

“Kluivert will begin his rehabilitation with the full support of the club’s medical and performance staff.

“Everyone at AFC Bournemouth extends their best wishes to Justin as we look forward to seeing him back on the pitch.”

How Big Of A Loss Will Justin Kluivert Be?

With Kluivert and possibly Semenyo unavailable, Bournemouth’s options are limited.

Able to play on either flank or in an attacking midfield role, Kluivert’s versatility will be missed.

Options to replace him include David Brooks and Marcus Tavernier, but with both starting alongside him at the weekend, a reshuffle from Iraola might be necessary.

Lewis Cook replaced the Dutch attacker when he left the field against Arsenal.

Yet recent injuries have shown how little depth the Cherries have in certain areas.

If Semenyo does depart, Kluivert’s absence will only be felt more keenly.

Twenty-six-year-old Kluivert joined Bournemouth in 2023 from Roma for around £10 million.

A product of the Ajax academy, like his father, Justin has made 11 senior appearances for the Netherlands.

He has played 94 times for Bournemouth, starting 65 Premier League games.

To date, he has notched 21 Premier League goals and seven assists.