Several Premier League heavyweights are facing significant selection headaches as injuries, suspensions and national team call-ups affect key players across the league’s traditional “Big Six.”
Arsenal have been dealt multiple injury blows. Midfield anchor Declan Rice is sidelined with a knee issue, while Riccardo Calafiori is out with a muscle problem. Youngsters Max Dowman and Christian Mosquera are also unavailable after picking up ankle injuries, further thinning Mikel Arteta’s options.
At Chelsea, the situation is equally concerning. Romeo Lavia continues his recovery from a quadriceps injury, and Dario Essugo is nursing a thigh problem. Defender Levi Colwill faces a lengthy spell out with an ACL injury. In addition, Moises Caicedo and Mykhailo Mudryk are both unavailable due to suspension.
Liverpool are without several important names as well. Alexander Isak is sidelined with a leg injury, while Giovanni Leoni is out with a knee problem. Star forward Mohamed Salah is absent due to international duty, a major loss for Arne Slot’s attacking setup.
Defending champions Manchester City are also affected. Omar Marmoush and Rayan Aït-Nouri are away on national team duty, while Mateo Kovačić is ruled out with an ankle injury. Winger Jeremy Doku is sidelined with a leg problem, reducing Pep Guardiola’s attacking options.
At Manchester United, Ruben Amorim faces a long list of absentees. Matthijs de Ligt is dealing with a back issue, Harry Maguire has a knock, and Bruno Fernandes is out with a hamstring injury. Noussair Mazraoui, Bryan Mbeumo and Amad are all unavailable due to international commitments.
Tottenham Hotspur have also been hit hard. Xavi Simons is suspended, while Pape Matar Sarr and Yves Bissouma are away with their national teams. Dominic Solanke is sidelined with an ankle injury, Dejan Kulusevski is out with a knee problem, and James Maddison faces a long absence after suffering an ACL injury.
With fixtures coming thick and fast, these absences could have a major impact on results and momentum as the Premier League season reaches a decisive stage.