Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Kai Havertz will miss Wednesday's crucial Champions League semi-final first leg against Atletico Madrid, but Arsenal will be boosted by Bukayo Saka being included in the squad. The Gunners are in a critical period as they aim to secure both the Premier League and Champions League titles, forcing Arteta to manage injuries and a packed schedule.
Injury update
Arsenal suffered a double injury blow during their 1-0 victory over Newcastle at the weekend, with both Havertz and Eberechi Eze forced off the pitch either side of half-time. Providing an update, Arteta said: "Kai [Havertz] is out and Ebs [Eze] is ready to go." Following the Newcastle match, Arteta had described Havertz's issue as a "little niggle" that didn't appear serious, but further assessment has ruled the German out for at least the first leg.
With Havertz absent, Viktor Gyokeres is expected to lead the line, potentially supported by Saka's return. Arteta confirmed the winger is in the squad but may not be fit enough to start. Saka made his comeback from an Achilles injury last Sunday, playing the final 10 minutes against Newcastle. His presence on the right flank would be a significant boost if he is fully fit.
Defensive concerns
Riccardo Calafiori, who has not started two consecutive Premier League matches since early December, was omitted from the Newcastle squad but will be involved against Atletico. However, Jurrien Timber remains sidelined. Arteta stated the defender, absent for a month, "needs to do more before he can compete with us."
Arteta on Atletico Madrid
Speaking about the opposition, Arteta praised Diego Simeone's work: "[Atleti] are very strong at both ends, otherwise they would not be here. The energy they create in the stadium, how they believe in it. We have prepared the game to win it." He added: "I think a lot of the work he's carried out, he has transformed the club in 15 years. The way he has done it, I have always had admiration for these kind of people. He is very connected to the club. He is an absolute role model."
