Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is struggling with injury concerns as Ben White and Mikel Merino remain doubtful for the upcoming UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg against Paris Saint-Germain.
Both players were absent from Arsenal’s recent 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace, raising questions about their availability for the crucial European fixture.
White, a reliable player in Arsenal’s defence, has been sidelined due to a groin issue. Arteta confirmed that White was not fit to feature against Palace, stating, “They couldn’t be involved – if not they would have been.”
Merino, who has been in impressive form since joining Arsenal, is also nursing an injury.
The midfielder has been instrumental in Arsenal’s midfield, and his potential absence against PSG could be a significant blow. Arteta expressed uncertainty about their availability for the PSG match, saying, “We’ll have to wait and see, they weren’t able to be in the squad today.”
The Gunners are already dealing with a congested fixture list and the pressure of competing on multiple fronts.
With the Premier League title race intensifying and the Champions League semi-finals looming, Arteta will be hoping for positive updates on his injured players. The team’s depth will be tested, and the manager may need to rely on squad rotation to navigate this challenging period.
As Arsenal prepares to face PSG, the fitness of White and Merino will be closely monitored. Their potential return could provide a much-needed boost as the Gunners aim to secure a favourable result in the first leg of the semi-final.
