Credit: Getty Images
Arsenal have received mixed news on the injury front ahead of their Champions League semi-final first leg against Atletico Madrid, with one key player insisting he is fine despite being forced off during the weekend’s victory over Newcastle.
Eberechi Eze was substituted early in the second half of the 1-0 win at St. James’ Park with what appeared to be a muscular problem, raising immediate concerns about his availability for Wednesday’s crucial clash in Madrid.
FREE DAILY NEWSLETTER
The daily Arsenal FC newsletter
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
However, the attacking midfielder moved quickly to ease fears about his fitness, telling Sky Sports: “I’m alright. I’m all good, it was just a precaution. I didn’t want to do anything \[more severe\], I’ll be OK.”
Eze’s reassurance will come as welcome news for Mikel Arteta, who is already dealing with multiple injury concerns ahead of two pivotal fixtures this week.
Havertz facing race against time
--------------------------------
The Gunners are sweating on the fitness of Kai Havertz, who lasted just 33 minutes against Newcastle before being forced off with a muscular injury. The German forward is now a doubt to lead the line in the Spanish capital.
Speaking in his post-match press conference, Arteta revealed the extent of both players’ issues. “They are muscular niggles,” the Arsenal manager said of Havertz and Eze. “We don’t think it’s too much. We have to wait and see if they can be available for Wednesday.”
Regarding Havertz specifically, Arteta added: “He had a little niggle. I don’t know how serious it is. It didn’t look too big. The action, the way he describes it, is not too sharp. But we have to wait and see.”
Defensive concerns mount
------------------------
Arsenal’s injury list extends beyond their attacking options, with Riccardo Calafiori and Jurrien Timber both missing the Newcastle victory. According to the Evening Standard, Calafiori was expected to return to the matchday squad but was left out again, though he appears in contention to travel to Spain.
Timber faces a longer battle, having missed the last eight games across all competitions with a groin problem. The Dutch defender has been sidelined for well over a month since being forced off against Everton on March 14.
Martin Zubimendi also required substitution against Newcastle, though his issue was illness rather than injury. “Zubi was sick, and at half-time, he wasn’t feeling good,” Arteta explained. “He tried his very best. He played a really good game, and in the end, we had to take him off.”
The fitness concerns come at a crucial juncture for Arsenal, who reclaimed top spot in the Premier League title race following their victory over Newcastle. The north London side will need their key players available as they bid to reach the Champions League final while maintaining their domestic momentum.