Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is unlikely to see any significant injury recoveries ahead of their upcoming Champions League second-leg clash against PSV Eindhoven. However, with a commanding six-goal lead from the first leg, this fixture provides an opportunity to rest key players and hand valuable minutes to those on the fringes of the squad.
Despite a setback in their Premier League title pursuit, the Gunners remain focused on their European campaign. Their latest domestic outing saw them secure a hard-fought point against Manchester United, thanks to a late equalizer from Declan Rice. The match was far from comfortable, with goalkeeper David Raya producing crucial saves to deny the Red Devils.
On a positive note, Gabriel Martinelli made his return to action at Old Trafford, featuring in a 32-minute cameo after being sidelined for over a month. The Brazilian winger had previously suffered an injury in the Carabao Cup semi-final defeat to Newcastle United, forcing him off after just 37 minutes.
However, Arsenal’s injury list remains a concern. Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus have been ruled out for the rest of the season, while Takehiro Tomiyasu—who has played just six minutes this campaign—remains sidelined with a knee injury that will keep him out until later in the year.
There is optimism regarding Bukayo Saka’s return, as the England international continues to recover from surgery. Having missed 17 matches since limping off during Arsenal’s 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace in December, he is edging closer to a comeback. Arteta is hopeful that Saka will be fit after the upcoming international break.
Arsenal will take on Chelsea and Fulham in back-to-back London derbies on either side of the break. Speaking about the squad’s injury concerns, Arteta commented:
“With Gabi, his injury was slightly different. We mentioned last week that he was much closer than Bukayo. After the international break, we’ll assess where Saka is. His recovery is progressing well, and he’s eager to return. Hopefully, in a few weeks, he’ll be back.”
