FOOTBALL
Posted on March 17, 2026 12:15 am | Updated on March 17, 2026 12:00 am
Arsenal returned to training at London Colney on Monday as preparations began for their Champions League last 16 second leg against Bayer Leverkusen. The tie remains finely balanced after the 1-1 draw in Germany, leaving everything to play for in north London.
The Gunners arrive with confidence after a 2-0 victory over Everton F.C. at the weekend. Still, the latest training session delivered both positive updates and fresh concerns regarding squad fitness. Several players stepped back onto the pitch, while two notable absentees raised doubts about their involvement in the decisive European encounter.
Leandro Trossard returns to training after injury scare
There was encouraging news for Mikel Arteta as Leandro Trossard joined the group during Monday’s session at London Colney. The Belgian forward had been managing an unspecified problem since limping off during the FA Cup win over Mansfield Town. Trossard travelled with the squad for the first leg against Leverkusen but did not make the matchday lineup.
He also missed the weekend victory over Everton, which raised doubts about the severity of the issue. His return to training now offers a welcome boost ahead of the second leg. However, his participation does not guarantee he will start.
Arsenal have relied on Trossard’s versatility this season. His ability to operate across the attacking line has often given Arteta extra tactical options during busy periods. As per the reports from the training ground, the staff will continue to monitor his condition before making a final call on his involvement.
Odegaard and Timber absences raise selection questions
Despite the positive development surrounding Trossard, two key names were missing from the session. Club captain Martin Odegaard did not train as he continues to recover from a knee problem that has kept him out in recent weeks. The Norwegian midfielder remains eager to return and recently spoke about his determination to rejoin the squad as soon as possible. However, his absence from Monday’s session suggests the second leg against Leverkusen may arrive too soon for him.
Defensive concerns also surfaced with Jurrien Timber missing from the group. The Dutch right back picked up an ankle knock during the win over Everton and was unable to continue in that match. Initially the issue did not appear serious, but Timber has been heavily used in recent months due to ongoing fitness concerns surrounding Ben White.
With the schedule tightening, Arsenal may decide to manage Timber carefully. The defender is now considered a major doubt for the European clash and could instead target a return in the upcoming domestic cup final at Wembley. Arteta is expected to address the situation when he speaks to the media later today.
Max Dowman continues to impress in training
One of the most intriguing storylines from the latest training session involved academy prospect Max Dowman. The teenager recently made headlines after scoring a dramatic stoppage time goal against Everton to become the youngest scorer in the history of the Premier League.
Dowman trained with the senior squad again on Monday as he continues building momentum following his return from an ankle injury. He has also rejoined Arsenal’s UEFA B List squad, which allows him to feature in the Champions League if Arteta selects him.
Earlier in the season he dropped off the list after a setback in a behind closed doors match against Manchester United. Now fully fit again, he could offer Arteta another attacking option if required. Elsewhere, Riccardo Calafiori trained normally after recent concerns over a muscular issue. His availability provides further defensive depth as Arsenal prepare for a crucial night in Europe’s biggest football competition.
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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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