The final international break of the season has concluded, leaving Premier League clubs with an uninterrupted run of fixtures until May.
However, the break has come at a cost, as multiple key players have returned to their teams carrying injuries.
Many top-flight players were in action for their national teams in critical World Cup qualifiers and UEFA Nations League matches.
Unfortunately, some suffered setbacks that could rule them out of crucial fixtures as domestic football resumes in April.
With the season entering a decisive phase, these injuries could significantly impact team performances.
Injury Setbacks Across the League
Arsenal faces a fresh injury concern after Riccardo Calafiori sustained a knock while representing Italy against Germany in the Nations League.
Elsewhere, Nottingham Forest’s Chris Wood was forced off during New Zealand’s must-win clash against New Caledonia, which saw them secure World Cup qualification.
Liverpool’s Ryan Gravenberch and Chelsea’s Cole Palmer had to withdraw from their national squads before featuring in any matches.
Both clubs are hopeful their injuries are not serious, but their availability remains uncertain.
Despite these challenges, some clubs have received positive news.
Several players who have been out since the start of the year are expected to return in early April, providing crucial reinforcements for their respective sides.
With only nine weeks left in the Premier League campaign, managing player fitness will be key as teams aim for silverware, European qualification, or top-flight survival.
Club-by-Club Injury Updates
Arsenal
Bukayo Saka, who has been out since December after undergoing hamstring surgery, is nearing his return.
The England international is targeting the Champions League quarterfinal clash against Real Madrid on April 8 for his comeback.
However, the Gunners will continue to be without Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and Takehiro Tomiyasu for the remainder of the season.
Riccardo Calafiori’s knee injury is still under assessment, and his status remains unclear.
Meanwhile, Jurrien Timber, who has been recovering from a long-term issue, could be fit in time for Arsenal’s upcoming fixture against Fulham.
Aston Villa
Ollie Watkins missed England’s World Cup qualifiers after picking up a minor injury during Villa’s Champions League win over Club Brugge.
However, he could be fit in time for their FA Cup clash with Preston.
Ross Barkley, sidelined since January with a calf problem, is also edging closer to a return.
Bournemouth
Andoni Iraola provided an optimistic update regarding Julian Araujo and Marcos Senesi, confirming both have made good progress in their rehabilitation.
The duo recently visited a specialist in Finland and have resumed training.
Chelsea
Enzo Maresca remains hopeful that Cole Palmer will be available for selection after the playmaker missed England duty due to a minor issue.
Maresca revealed, “He had a slight problem last week, and another one in training, but we’re confident he’ll be ready after the break.”
Fulham
Reiss Nelson has been ruled out for the rest of the season.
However, Sasa Lukic is available again after serving a suspension, while Kenny Tete and Harry Wilson are expected to return in April.
Liverpool
Ryan Gravenberch was forced to pull out of the Netherlands squad with a muscle injury but could return for the Merseyside derby against Everton.
Goalkeeper Alisson Becker suffered an injury while playing for Brazil after colliding with Colombia’s Davinson Sanchez but is expected to recover in time for the next fixture.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, Conor Bradley, and Joe Gomez remain unavailable, meaning Jarell Quansah is likely to continue at right-back.
Manager Arne Slot is hopeful the trio will return before the season ends, though they are set to miss a few more weeks.
Manchester City
Rodri’s availability remains uncertain as he continues recovering from a muscle injury.
Nathan Ake is another key defensive player who could be sidelined for City’s upcoming matches.
Bernardo Silva, who was limited to just 18 minutes in City’s last league game, played the full 120 minutes for Portugal, suggesting he has regained full fitness.
Ederson is set to return from an abdominal injury, but John Stones and Manuel Akanji may not be back until late April or early May.
Manchester United
Harry Maguire is nearing a return after narrowly missing out on England’s squad and is expected to be fit for United’s match against Nottingham Forest on April 1.
Youngster Leny Yoro and midfielder Patrick Dorgu have both recovered from injuries and suspensions.
However, Ayden Heaven, who was stretchered off in United’s clash with Leicester, may require further recovery time.
Kobbie Mainoo’s status remains unclear, with manager Ruben Amorim yet to confirm a return date.
Luke Shaw and Amad are expected back before the season ends, but Lisandro Martinez has been ruled out for the rest of the campaign.
Newcastle United
Anthony Gordon, who missed the Carabao Cup final due to suspension, picked up an injury while on international duty.
His national team coach, Thomas Tuchel, revealed, “He left camp with severe bruising around his hip, and the pain was so intense he struggled to walk.” His return date remains uncertain.
Meanwhile, defenders Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles are unlikely to play again this season due to knee injuries.
Nottingham Forest
Chris Wood sustained a hip injury while playing for New Zealand and is undergoing further evaluation. Early indications suggest it may not be a long-term issue.
The Final Stretch of the Season
As the Premier League enters its last few weeks, injuries will play a crucial role in determining outcomes across the table.
Whether competing for titles, European spots, or battling relegation, clubs must carefully manage their squads to navigate this intense period.