Arsenal has received a significant boost ahead of their Champions League semi-final second leg against Atletico Madrid, with manager Mikel Arteta confirming the availability of key midfielders Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard.
The Gunners will host Atletico at the Emirates on Tuesday, aiming to reach their first Champions League final since 2006. The return of Havertz and Odegaard provides crucial depth and creative options for Arteta’s squad as they navigate this high-stakes encounter.
Odegaard, who started the first leg, was withdrawn early in the second half and subsequently missed Arsenal’s dominant 3-0 victory over Fulham. Havertz, meanwhile, has been sidelined for Arsenal’s last two matches after sustaining an injury during their 1-0 win against Newcastle. Their return was enthusiastically confirmed by Arteta in his pre-match press conference.
“They’re available, in the squad both of them. It’s great,” Arteta told reporters, as reported by Metro. “We need options, we need the capacity to play different games tomorrow, whether it’s from the start or after. It’s really, really good news for us to have them both back.”
Read also: The £40m question: Tyler Dibling's struggle for a starting role at Everton
Saka’s managed return and other squad news
The news comes alongside positive updates regarding Bukayo Saka, who impressed against Fulham and was strategically brought off at half-time on Saturday to manage his comeback from an earlier injury. Saka’s return to full fitness is another welcome development for Arsenal’s attack.
Arteta expressed his satisfaction with Saka’s condition, stating: “Great, that’s what we need when we arrive in this stage of the competition – the players not only to be available, but to be in top condition to perform and make the difference, and Bukayo will certainly give us that.”
While the squad sees key returns, defender Jurrien Timber remains unavailable due to his ongoing injury. However, the presence of Havertz, Odegaard, and a fully fit Saka will undoubtedly bolster Arsenal’s chances. Viktor Gyokeres, who scored Arsenal’s goal in the first leg from the penalty spot and notched a brace against Fulham, will also be looking to continue his impressive form.
With their sights set on a historic final appearance, Arsenal will be hoping these crucial returns provide the impetus needed to overcome Atletico Madrid at home.
Read also: Wu Yize crowned world snooker champion, secures record prize
Sources: metro.co.uk
Read also: Arsenal eye first Champions League final since 2006
