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Posted on March 12, 2026 8:15 pm | Updated on March 12, 2026 7:55 pm
Arsenal’s demanding run of fixtures continued in Germany as Mikel Arteta’s side battled to a 1-1 draw against Bayer Leverkusen in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie. The result keeps the contest finely balanced ahead of the return meeting in north London.
Kai Havertz rescued the Gunners late on with a calm penalty, ensuring Arsenal left the BayArena with a valuable result. The draw also came during a period when several important players are dealing with injuries or fitness concerns. Arsenal will now return to action at the Emirates this weekend before turning their focus back to the decisive second leg.
Player availability could play a major role as the schedule remains intense. The squad has been pushed hard over the last few weeks with domestic and European commitments arriving one after another. Managing minutes and protecting players from further injuries has therefore become a key task for Arteta and his staff.
Trossard and Saka fitness updates
Leandro Trossard was absent from the squad that travelled to Germany after picking up a knock during the FA Cup win against Mansfield Town. The Belgian forward left the pitch during the first half of that match and did not recover in time for the trip to Leverkusen. Arteta explained that the decision to leave him out was precautionary rather than a major concern. The winger felt discomfort and the staff chose not to risk him ahead of a busy schedule.
As per reports surrounding the squad situation, the club are carefully managing workloads as the football calendar becomes increasingly demanding. Trossard’s issue is believed to be minor and he could return later in March if recovery continues smoothly.
Bukayo Saka also attracted attention when he was substituted after an hour in Germany. The England international had recently returned from a hip problem that kept him sidelined earlier in the year. Arteta clarified that the change was largely tactical.
Noni Madueke replaced Saka as Arsenal searched for more attacking threat during the second half. Saka has remained one of Arsenal’s most influential players this season and the coaching staff are determined to avoid any setbacks. At this stage there is no indication of a fresh injury concern.
Odegaard concern and Merino recovery
Captain Martin Odegaard remains one of the key injury concerns for Arsenal heading into the next round of fixtures. The Norwegian midfielder missed the trip to Leverkusen, extending a run that has seen him absent from several recent matches. A knee issue has limited his involvement in recent weeks. Odegaard has managed only two starts in the past month while the coaching staff monitor his condition closely.
Arteta admitted that the midfielder brings qualities that are difficult to replace in the team’s creative structure. Elsewhere, summer signing Mikel Merino faces a longer spell on the sidelines after surgery on a fractured foot earlier this year.
The current timeline suggests the Spanish midfielder could return during the closing stages of the season if his rehabilitation continues without complications.
Calafiori returns to the Arsenal squad
There was one positive update for Arsenal during the trip to Germany as Riccardo Calafiori returned to the matchday squad. The defender had been withdrawn in the FA Cup win over Mansfield after feeling discomfort in his hamstring. The issue proved minor and he was fit enough to take a place on the bench against Bayer Leverkusen.
His quick recovery highlights the cautious approach the club are taking with minor injuries. Arsenal know the coming weeks will define their season, so avoiding unnecessary risks is vital. As players continue to make their way back and others approach full fitness, Arteta is keen for his squad to be nearing full strength ahead of the crucial Champions League second leg in north London.
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Deepanjali Bhardwaj
Deepanjali Bhardwaj is a Sports Writer at Six Sports, covering both football and cricket with a focus on match developments, player performances, and key talking points across the two sports. Her work combines timely reporting with clear analysis, helping readers stay informed about major matches, tournaments, and emerging storylines in the football and cricket landscape. Through her coverage at Six Sports, Deepanjali contributes match reports, analytical pieces, and feature stories that highlight important moments, team strategies, and standout player performances across domestic and international competitions.
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