As the highly anticipated Boxing Day fixtures approach, injury updates from Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, and other Premier League teams dominate the headlines.
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the latest injury news affecting the league’s top clubs.
Arsenal: Saka and Sterling Among High-Profile Absentees
Arsenal’s title ambitions have taken a hit with the news that bukayo saka will be sidelined for approximately eight weeks due to a hamstring injury sustained during the Gunners’ 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace.
Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed, “It’s not looking good… it’s going to be many weeks.”
Adding to Arsenal’s woes, Raheem Sterling, expected to replace Saka, is also out with a knee injury sustained in training.
Arteta expressed his concern, stating,
“He needs further testing… he is going to be out for a while.” Sterling joins Ben White, Oleksandr Zinchenko, and Takehiro Tomiyasu on the injury list.
Manchester City: Ruben Dias Out for Up to a Month
Pep Guardiola’s injury concerns deepen as Ruben Dias becomes the latest casualty for Manchester City.
Dias suffered a muscle injury during their recent defeat to Manchester United and is expected to be sidelined for three to four weeks. Guardiola shared,
“He is so strong and wanted to stay on the pitch, but it’s muscular.”
Nathan Ake, Manuel Akanji, and John Stones have also faced fitness struggles, with Stones’ return against Aston Villa raising fears of a potential reoccurrence of a foot injury.
Read Also: “It’s about us, not just one player”_Pep Guardiola Defends Erling Haaland Amid Manchester City’s Form Struggles
Manchester United: Mount Sidelined; Rashford Uncertain
Mason Mount’s challenging start at Manchester United continues as manager Ruben Amorim confirmed the midfielder would miss “several weeks” following an early exit during the Manchester Derby.
Amorim added, “It’s part of football, but he’s very sad.”
Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford‘s future remains uncertain, with recent comments suggesting he may seek opportunities away from Old Trafford.
Chelsea: Lavia to Miss Boxing Day Clash
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca revealed that Romeo Lavia is still recovering and will not feature against Fulham.
“It is much better, but unfortunately, he is not ready,” Maresca confirmed.
Brentford: Injury Hits Continue
Thomas Frank confirmed extended absences for Kristoffer Ajer (ankle) and Ethan Pinnock (hamstring). However, Sepp van den Berg could make a return soon, though not in time for the Brighton clash.
Brighton: Solly March Nears Return
Brighton fans may see Solly March back on the pitch after a lengthy absence due to a knee injury. Manager Fabian Hurzeler shared, “He’s doing really well and could return against Brentford.”
Newcastle: Joelinton and Willock Updates
Newcastle’s Joelinton could return after undergoing minor surgery, while Joe Willock is expected to be fit despite a recent knock. However, Nick Pope remains out with a knee injury.
Everton: McNeil Doubtful for City Showdown
Sean Dyche hinted that Dwight McNeil might miss Everton’s clash with Manchester City. While his absence is expected to be brief, Ashley Young (suspension) and two others remain sidelined.
Wolves: Lemina a Doubt for Man United Clash
Mario Lemina‘s return remains uncertain after missing Wolves’ last match with a minor calf injury. New manager Vitor Pereira hopes for clarity ahead of their game against Manchester United.
Stay tuned as these injury updates unfold and impact the Premier League’s Boxing Day fixtures. For the latest news and insights, keep following this space.