Arsenal Injury Update: Merino, Rice, and Jesus Following Brighton Draw
The latest updates from Arsenal come after the Gunners secured a draw against Brighton, finishing 1-1, as attention shifts to the upcoming match against Tottenham post-international break.
As the 2024/25 Premier League season progresses, the first international break has arrived. Arsenal concludes this initial phase with seven points from three matches, having won their first two before drawing with Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday.
Mikel Arteta’s team initially took the lead with a goal from Kai Havertz, but Declan Rice received a contentious second yellow card shortly after halftime. Brighton capitalized on their numerical advantage, with Joao Pedro equalizing just before the hour mark.
With a two-week hiatus ahead, Arsenal will return to action with a crucial North London derby at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Due to his red card against Brighton, Rice will be unavailable for this match due to suspension.
However, Arteta may welcome back another player from injury. Here’s the latest from the treatment room as we enter the international break.
Mikel Merino
Injury: Shoulder
Arteta’s comments: “We need to assess the situation. He was in considerable pain,” Arteta stated on Friday. “Further tests will provide us with clearer information.”
Expected return date: Unknown
Declan Rice
Reason for absence: Suspension
Following two yellow cards in the draw against Brighton, Rice will serve a one-match suspension, ruling him out of the North London derby after the international break.
Return date: Vs Bolton (A) Carabao Cup.
Takehiro Tomiyasu
Injury: Knee
Arteta’s comments: “Currently, it’s challenging to determine [his return timeline]. The initial phase of recovery is progressing slowly,” he stated on Friday. “The medical team is likely in a better position to provide updates. He hasn’t participated in any training sessions yet.”
Expected return date: Undetermined
Gabriel Jesus
Injury: Groin
Arteta’s comments: “He is making significant progress. After experiencing a muscle injury, he is already engaging in many activities, so we anticipate his return to the squad very soon.”
Expected return date: Against Tottenham (A), Sunday, September 15
Kieran Tierney
Injury: Hamstring
Arteta’s comments: “He will still be a few weeks behind schedule.” (August 16).
Expected return date: Undetermined
