Saka, Dembélé, Kvaratskhelia: Star Footballers Hit by Injuries After International Break
Several high-profile footballers have suffered injuries since returning to club football after the September international break, raising concerns for their clubs as the 2026/27 season gathers pace.
Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka is the latest major name to join the list after leaving the pitch early against Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League on October 21.
Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain have suffered a significant setback after Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Ousmane Dembélé and Marquinhos sustained injuries during their Champions League campaign.
The injuries could affect selection decisions for some of Europe’s leading clubs as domestic and European fixtures continue to pile up.
1. Bukayo Saka — Arsenal
Saka suffered a thigh injury during Arsenal’s Champions League clash against Bayern Munich on October 21, 2026.
The England international left the pitch in the 10th minute, forcing Arsenal to make an early substitution.
According to Reuters’ report on Saka’s injury, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed concern about the winger’s condition.
However, the full extent of the injury and the length of his potential absence remained uncertain pending further assessment.
Saka remains an important figure in Arsenal’s attack. His availability will therefore be closely watched as the club navigates its domestic and European commitments.
2. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia — Paris Saint-Germain
Paris Saint-Germain suffered a major setback when Georgian winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia sustained a serious knee injury during their Champions League match against Barcelona on October 20.
The injury was subsequently confirmed by the French club, which announced that the forward had suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee.
According to PSG’s official medical statement, Kvaratskhelia was scheduled to undergo surgery in the following days.
An ACL injury can require several months of rehabilitation, although his precise recovery timeline will depend on the treatment and rehabilitation process.
His absence would deprive PSG of one of their key attacking options during a demanding period of the season.
3. Ousmane Dembélé — Paris Saint-Germain
Dembélé also sustained a thigh injury during PSG’s Champions League encounter with Barcelona.
The French forward experienced discomfort in his left thigh during the match, prompting concerns about his availability for upcoming fixtures.
PSG subsequently confirmed the injury in their official medical update, indicating that he would require treatment over the following weeks.
Dembélé’s situation is particularly significant because of his role in PSG’s attacking setup. Any extended absence could limit the team’s options in the final third.
The club will monitor his recovery before determining when he can return to competitive action.
4. Marquinhos — Paris Saint-Germain
PSG captain Marquinhos was another casualty of the Barcelona match, sustaining an injury to his right thigh.
The Brazilian defender’s condition was included in the club’s medical update following the Champions League encounter.
PSG indicated that he would require treatment over the following weeks, leaving uncertainty over his immediate availability.
Marquinhos provides leadership and experience at the heart of the defence. His absence could force the coaching staff to adjust their defensive partnerships while he recovers.
With domestic and European matches continuing, PSG will need to manage their defensive options carefully.
Why these injuries matter
The injuries highlight the challenge clubs face when managing their squads during a crowded football calendar.
European teams must balance domestic league matches with Champions League commitments, leaving limited time for recovery between games.
However, the circumstances differ from player to player. Kvaratskhelia faces a serious rehabilitation process following his ACL injury, while the recovery periods for Saka, Dembélé and Marquinhos depend on the precise severity of their injuries and subsequent medical assessments.
For Arsenal, Saka’s condition will be a major concern because of his contribution to the attack. For PSG, losing several established players around the same time could place additional pressure on squad depth.
The coming weeks should provide a clearer picture of when the injured players can return and how their respective clubs will cope in their absence.