Arsenal have received mixed news ahead of their UEFA Champions League semi-final first-leg clash against Atletico Madrid. While a few key players returned to training, two important names are still expected to miss the big match in Spain.
Manager Mikel Arteta oversaw a training session in London on Tuesday as the squad prepared for the crucial European tie. The update has given both hope and concern to fans ahead of one of the biggest games of the season.
Positive Injury Boost for Arsenal
There is good news for Arsenal as Eberechi Eze and Riccardo Calafiori both trained with the squad ahead of the match. Their return comes at an important time when the team needs depth and stability.
Eze had raised concerns after coming off early during the 1-0 win over Newcastle. However, his presence in training suggests that the issue was not serious and he could be available for selection.
Calafiori also returned after missing recent matches due to a knock. The defender had been close to a comeback and now looks ready to be part of the squad for the semi-final clash.
Gabriel Martinelli also trained with the group, despite showing signs of discomfort at the end of the Newcastle match. His involvement is another positive sign for Arsenal.
Two Key Players Likely to Miss
Despite the boost, Arsenal are set to be without two players for the first leg. Jurrien Timber did not take part in training and is expected to miss the match. He has been out since March after suffering a groin injury.
Kai Havertz is another major absentee. The German forward picked up a muscular injury during the Newcastle game and was forced off early. Although the injury is not believed to be serious, he is not expected to feature in Madrid.
Arsenal Injury Status Ahead of Atletico Madrid Match
| Player | Status | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Eberechi Eze | Available | Trained, injury not serious |
| Riccardo Calafiori | Available | Returned after knock |
| Gabriel Martinelli | Likely Available | Trained despite minor concern |
| Kai Havertz | Out | Muscular injury vs Newcastle |
| Jurrien Timber | Out | Groin injury, no training |
Also Read: Xavi Simons Injury Update: ACL Blow Ends Season and World Cup Dream, Tottenham Crisis Deepens
Big Test Awaits Arsenal in Madrid
Arsenal will travel to Spain to face Atletico Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League semi-final. The return leg will be played in London, making this away fixture very important for setting the tone of the tie.
With some key players returning, Arsenal will feel more confident. However, missing important names like Havertz and Timber could still impact their plans.
The final squad selection and matchday decisions will be closely watched, as Arsenal aim to take a strong result into the second leg.
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