Arsenal are reportedly hopeful that Bukayo Saka will be available for their Champions League semi-final first leg against Atletico Madrid. The winger has missed the last five matches in all competitions due to an Achilles problem sustained in the Carabao Cup final.
There is also a possibility that Saka could return for the Premier League fixture against Newcastle United at the Emirates Stadium, which takes place four days before the European tie. Recent reports suggest the club is optimistic about his return within the next week.
Meanwhile, Mikel Merino is making positive progress in his recovery from a heel injury. The Spain international is no longer using crutches and is moving around Arsenal's London Colney training ground unaided, as seen in photographs taken before the Manchester City match.
Spanish newspaper AS reports that Merino could be running within the next two to three weeks, with a potential return before the season ends. The primary focus, however, is on the World Cup, and medical staff are confident he will be fit in time, having inserted a screw in his heel.
