The Gunners have been hampered by injuries in recent weeks, with several senior players sidelined, though a number could be back in contention against Nuno Espirito Santo’s side.
Arteta has said he is hopeful that those on international duty return without further setbacks.
William Saliba
Saliba limped off just five minutes into Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with Liverpool on 31 August. Arteta revealed the Frenchman had twisted his ankle in the warm-up and could not cope during the opening exchanges. “Thank God we have Mosquera, which we put in for the first time in the Premier League at Anfield and I think he was really, really good,” Arteta said.
Saliba has since withdrawn from France duty and is expected to be out until October.
Bukayo Saka
Saka was forced off with a hamstring injury against Leeds on 23 August. Arteta confirmed: “He will be out for a few weeks, unfortunately. No surgery. It’s not as bad as the previous one.”
The England winger, who missed four months last season with a similar issue, is targeting a return for the trip to Manchester City on 21 September.
Kai Havertz
Arsenal confirmed last month that Havertz required knee surgery, which he underwent successfully on 28 August. Arteta said: “Very unfortunate, very sad for him. We lose another big player for many, many weeks.”
The German’s return date remains unclear.
Christian Norgaard and Ben White
Both Norgaard and White could return against Forest after minor setbacks. Arteta said: “We don’t know yet. Let’s see how they evolve, but this is a chance to keep them involved in the game.”
Gabriel Jesus
Jesus has been sidelined since suffering an ACL injury in last season’s FA Cup. The Brazilian has shared positive updates, including footage of him running again. “Today, I finally feel light, like a child playing football again. God is great,” he posted in August.
His return is expected in December.
Arsenal face a crucial run of fixtures after Forest, with Manchester City (21 September) and Newcastle United (27 September) both awaiting in what will be a significant test of their squad depth.
