Mikel Arteta has indicated that Martin Ødegaard, Kai Havertz, and Noni Madueke could make their returns for Arsenal’s north London derby against Tottenham on November 23.
The three players have been dealing with knee injuries, with Ødegaard out since October 4, Madueke since September 21, and Havertz since the season opener.
Before the international break in November, the Gunners will face three away matches, beginning with a Premier League matchup against Burnley this Saturday.
Gabriel Martinelli will be unavailable for the Burnley match due to a slight injury, while William Saliba is undergoing evaluation for another unspecified issue.
Gabriel Jesus is also progressing in his recovery after knee surgery in January. When asked for an update on the injuries, Arteta mentioned on Friday: “I would estimate weeks, and for some of them, hopefully very soon, if they continue to improve as they have been.”
“It’s hard to specify a game due to the upcoming international break, which lasts two weeks. By then, I believe we’ll have some of them back.”
When pressed about the possibility of Madueke, Ødegaard, and Havertz being ready for the Spurs match, Arteta expressed enthusiasm: “Yes, I’m excited because they are incredible players. I see them train every day, and they are eager to rejoin the team.”
“Having them back after such an extended absence would be a significant boost for the squad, and I’m really hopeful it will be soon.”
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Arsenal currently lead the league after achieving eight consecutive victories across all competitions. They have conceded only three goals this season and are favored by bookmakers to win the league title for the first time since 2004.
However, Arteta cautioned his squad against being sidetracked by title discussions: “We must concentrate on the journey and what we need to do every day to ensure we achieve our goals,” he stated.
“Naturally, we want to win and are preparing for that. Great, now we have established all the protocols, processes, ambitions… everything.”
“What remains to be done must remain the focus; otherwise, distractions can arise. I want to keep the team clear of that mindset.”
Referring possibly to Son Heung-Min’s missed opportunity during Spurs’ match against Manchester City in May 2024—a critical moment in the title race—Arteta added: “In the end, you realize that the margins for success or failure are numerous.”
“A key moment could be an opposition player going one-on-one against the goalkeeper; if he scores, you become champions. If the keeper saves, you’re not champions. Various injuries, decisions, or mistakes—those are factors we cannot control. All we can do is perform to the best of our abilities.”