
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta revealed after the match that Saka had been dealing with a minor illness issue, but he is expected to be ready to start against Forest on Sunday.
Forward Kai Havertz and captain Martin Odegaard are also set to return to the Gunners’ starting lineup at the City Ground.
Arsenal have a huge Champions League clash with Bayern Munich to come next Wednesday night.
However, with two European wins already under their belt this season, it would be a surprise if Arteta named a weakened side at Forest in preparation for that match.
That means that Riccardo Calafiori is expected to start in the Midlands, having been given a full rest against Lille on Tuesday.
Quick impact: Bukayo Saka shone off the bench for Arsenal against Lille in the Champions League
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With Noni Madueke also offering a threat when he has been used on the left, Arteta has a decision to make in the continued absence of the injured Christos Tzolis.
There is also a difficult call to make regarding Ben White and Jurrien Timber at right-back, with White potentially getting the nod against Forest as Timber’s minutes continue to be managed carefully after his injury problems.
Predicted Arsenal XI vs Nottingham Forest (4-2-3-1): Raya; White, Konsa, Gabriel, Calafiori; Rice, Guimaraes; Saka, Odegaard, Eze; Havertz
Injured: Saliba, Hincapie, Tzolis
Doubt: Zubimendi
Time and date: 4:30pm BST on Sunday October 18, 2026
Venue: City Ground, Nottingham
How to watch: Sky Sports
