Arsenal still have some major fitness doubts as they prepare to welcome Newcastle United this weekend.
Arsenal are still sweating on the fitness of Jurrien Timber ahead of their clash with Newcastle United this weekend.
The Magpies travel to the Emirates Stadium on Saturday evening, with both sides in desperate need of points. Newcastle have slipped to 14th in the table and have seen their European qualification hopes dashed after a three-game losing streak, while Arsenal’s title destiny is now out of their own hands following a devastating loss to Manchester City on Sunday.
Timber has been out of commission since Arsenal’s 2-0 win against Everton back in mid-March, with Cristhian Mosquera and Ben White sharing responsibilities in the seven games (all comps) since. However, the Gunners have won just two of those matches and none domestically, including back-to-back Premier League defeats to Bournemouth and City.
Alongside Timber, Mikel Arteta hinted that Riccardo Calafiori and Martin Odegaard could return at the Etihad Stadium last weekend, but only the latter was ultimately fit enough to feature.
That would suggest Timber and Calafiori are close to making a much-needed return, but a report from the Daily Cannon has labelled both players as ‘doubts’ for this weekend’s game against Newcastle, meaning they’re more likely to make their comebacks against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on Wednesday.
Who else is missing for Arsenal against Newcastle United?
While Timber and Calafiori are still touch-and-go, Arsenal will definitely remain without two key players against Eddie Howe’s side.
Bukayo Saka isn’t due back until early May due to a muscle injury sustained during the international break, and with 14 direct goal involvements (9g/5a) across all competitions this season, his absence has been keenly felt.
Additionally, Mikel Merino hasn’t played since the 3-2 home defeat to Manchester United in January - in which he scored - with his foot injury looking likely to keep him sidelined until the end of next month. The Spaniard has six goals this season and 15 since joining Arsenal in the summer of 2024, proving himself a highly effective deputy up-front, alongside his natural midfield capabilities.
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