Arsenal have been dealt a significant injury boost as reports suggest Bukayo Saka could be available for the Champions League semi-final first leg against Atletico Madrid, while Mikel Merino is making positive strides in his recovery from a heel problem.
Saka closing in on return
The England international has missed Arsenal's last five matches across all competitions due to an Achilles issue sustained during the Carabao Cup final. The setback also ruled him out of the quarter-final clash with Sporting. However, according to The Independent, there is growing optimism within the club that the winger could feature in the trip to Madrid.
There is even a possibility that Saka returns to the squad for the Premier League fixture against Newcastle United at the Emirates Stadium, which takes place four days before the first leg of the semi-final. Should he recover in time, it would mark a significant moment for Mikel Arteta's side, as the trio of Saka, Martin Odegaard, and Kai Havertz could finally share the pitch together for the first time since the opening game of the season against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
The three last started together in the 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park in December 2024, some 16 months ago. Saka sustained a hamstring injury during that fixture, and they have not lined up in the same starting XI since.
Merino on the mend
Alongside the encouraging news regarding Saka, there are positive developments concerning Mikel Merino. Spanish newspaper AS reports that the midfielder will be back running within the next two to three weeks. He is already moving around Arsenal's London Colney training ground without the need for crutches, as confirmed by photographs taken ahead of the Manchester City fixture.
The publication suggests there is a possibility of Merino returning to action before the end of the season. However, the primary focus remains on the World Cup, with the Spain international expected to be fit and available barring any further setbacks. Medical staff are reportedly confident he will be ready in time, having inserted a screw in his heel, a view the player is said to share.
The Spanish Football Federation's head of medical services is quoted as saying, "We will have a clearer picture" on Merino's fitness in the coming weeks. He is said to be in regular contact with the players and remains optimistic regarding the recovery.
