Two Arsenal Stars Ruled Out vs Liverpool as Mikel Arteta Provides Kai Havertz Injury Update

London, January 7, 2026 – Arsenal face a mounting injury crisis ahead of Thursday's crucial Premier League clash against Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium, with manager Mikel Arteta confirming two key defenders are sidelined but offering hope on star forward Kai Havertz[2].

Arteta provided the latest team news during a pre-match briefing, addressing concerns over several players. Kai Havertz, absent for an extended period due to two separate issues, is nearing a return. "We are monitoring him, his load. He's been out for a long time... He trained this morning again and hopefully we're going to have him available and the best version of Kai very soon," Arteta said[2]. The German international's potential availability could be a massive boost for the Gunners' title aspirations.

However, bad news surrounds defenders Riccardo Calafiori and Cristhian Mosquera, both ruled out for the Liverpool encounter. "No, they are out again. I think pretty soon (they will be back). They have to go through the last stage of rehab," Arteta explained, indicating their returns are imminent but not in time for this fixture[2]. The absences leave Arsenal's backline stretched thin against a potent Liverpool attack.

Meanwhile, Liverpool are grappling with their own fitness woes. Forward Hugo Ekitike is a major doubt after missing the Reds' 2-2 draw with Fulham due to a hamstring injury initially thought to be minor muscle soreness. Manager Arne Slot revealed scans showed "a little bit more," with Ekitike yet to resume full training. "He has not trained with us until now and let's see if he can today," Slot noted, adding it's a race against time for Thursday[1][2][3].

Alexander Isak remains sidelined with a complex lower-leg injury requiring surgery, including a fibula fracture, ruling him out until at least March[1]. Mohamed Salah's ongoing Africa Cup of Nations commitments further depletes Liverpool's options[2]. Teenage defender Giovanni Leoni is long-term absent with an ACL tear[1]. No suspensions for either side.

The blockbuster matchup pits two title contenders, with Arsenal desperate for points amid their injury-hit squad and Liverpool hoping to capitalize despite forward-line issues. Kick-off is set for Thursday evening.

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