Arsenal’s preparations for their Champions League semi-final second leg against Paris Saint-Germain have hit a snag with fresh injury concerns to Jurrien Timber and Martin Ødegaard, just days before their season-defining clash in Paris.
Following a disappointing 3-2 home defeat to Bournemouth, Mikel Arteta faces an anxious wait on the fitness of several key players as the Gunners aim to overturn a 1-0 deficit and reach their first Champions League final in nearly two decades.
Timber ruled out of Bournemouth loss — no clarity on PSG
One of the most notable absentees on Saturday was Jurrien Timber, who missed the matchday squad entirely. Arteta, when asked whether the Dutch defender could be fit for Wednesday’s clash, was non-committal:
“Confident? At the moment, no, because he wasn’t able to play here and we play in four days,” Arteta said. “I cannot tell you (what his injury is).”
It’s a frustrating development for Timber, who only recently returned from an ACL injury that sidelined him for nearly the entire season. Arsenal had hoped to integrate him gradually, but another setback now places serious doubt on his involvement in Paris.
Odegaard withdrawn early — status uncertain
Even more concerning is the fitness of club captain Martin Ødegaard, who was forced off early against Bournemouth.
Arteta admitted he had not yet received a medical briefing:
“I haven’t had a chance yet to speak to a doctor to give me an update on that, so I don’t know.”
READ MORE: AC Milan ready to offer player-plus-cash deal to sign Arsenal’s versatile 22yo full-back
Losing Ødegaard — Arsenal’s creative hub and tempo-setter — would be a significant blow, particularly in a game where ball retention and control will be crucial.
Returnees and absentees for Paris
There is some positive news. Pedro Neto, ineligible against Bournemouth due to his loan terms, will return to the squad. Meanwhile, Thomas Partey, suspended for the first leg, is now available and expected to play a major role.
However, Gabriel Magalhães, Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Jorginho are all officially ruled out for the season or simply not ready to return in time.
There’s also uncertainty around Riccardo Calafiori, who hasn’t yet returned to full training. Even if he is passed fit, the best-case scenario would be a place on the bench.
Arteta faces a selection puzzle
With such a congested injury list, Arteta may be forced to reshuffle again, relying on the likes of Trossard, Merino, Rice, and possibly Ethan Nwaneri or Emile Smith Rowe for rotation and support.
The Gunners will need to be at full throttle on Wednesday night in Paris — and the latest injury updates add further complexity to an already difficult task.
