Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Kai Havertz will miss Arsenal's Champions League semi-final first leg against Atletico Madrid, but the Gunners will be boosted by the return of Bukayo Saka to the squad. The German striker was forced off during the 1-0 win over Newcastle at the weekend, and Arteta revealed the injury is serious enough to rule him out of Wednesday's clash.
Speaking ahead of the match, Arteta said: "Kai is out and Ebs [Eze] is ready to go." Eberechi Eze also went off injured against Newcastle, but the Arsenal boss confirmed he is available. Meanwhile, Saka, who returned from an Achilles injury last Sunday and played the final 10 minutes against Newcastle, is in the squad but may not be fit enough to start.
With Havertz absent, Viktor Gyokeres is expected to lead the line. Arteta also confirmed that Riccardo Calafiori, left out of the Newcastle match, will be involved against Atletico. However, Jurrien Timber remains sidelined, with Arteta stating the defender "needs to do more before he can compete with us."
On Atletico Madrid, Arteta praised their strength and the work of Diego Simeone, saying: "They are very strong at both ends... He has transformed the club in 15 years. He is an absolute role model."
