Arsenal face an anxious wait over the fitness of several key defenders after their title race received both a boost and a setback during the 1-0 win against West Ham United.
Leandro Trossard’s decisive goal moved Arsenal five points clear at the top of the Premier League table, with Mikel Arteta’s side now potentially one victory away from securing the title.
However, injuries to Ben White and Riccardo Calafiori have created major concerns ahead of next Monday’s meeting with Burnley and the upcoming Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain.
Ben White injury causes major concern
White’s substitution in the first half at the London Stadium immediately alarmed Arsenal supporters.
The defender was later seen leaving the stadium wearing a brace on his right knee after an awkward challenge involving Crysencio Summerville.
Arteta admitted after the match that the early signs were worrying.
“We don't know but it doesn't look good at all. He needs some further testing tomorrow probably and then we will know.”
Having followed Arsenal’s defensive structure closely this season, White’s potential absence would represent a significant blow given his consistency and tactical importance on the right side.
Potential return date: Unknown
Calafiori also suffers setback
There was initial confusion surrounding Calafiori’s withdrawal at half-time.
During the broadcast, it was suggested the change may have been tactical, but Arteta later confirmed the Italian defender had been forced off through injury.
“We had to make another change with Richy.”
The lack of a detailed update leaves uncertainty over the severity of the issue, although Arsenal will hope the problem is minor enough to allow him to feature again before the season concludes.
Given Calafiori’s injury history, the club are expected to proceed cautiously.
Potential return date: Arsenal vs Burnley — 18 May 2026
Timber facing difficult recovery process
Jurrien Timber continues to battle a groin injury that has already sidelined him for nearly two months.
The Dutch international has missed Arsenal’s last 12 matches in all competitions after suffering the issue during the win over Everton FC in March.
Arteta recently admitted the recovery has taken longer than expected. “That’s been probably the most difficult thing to manage. We didn’t expect it to take so long and at the moment he’s not fit to play.”
There is now growing uncertainty over whether Timber will feature again this season.
Potential return date: Unknown
Merino targeting Champions League final
Midfielder Mikel Merino is also racing to return before the campaign ends after undergoing foot surgery earlier this year.
The Spain international has resumed individual work on the grass, but Arteta remains cautious about setting a clear comeback timeline.
There is still hope Merino could be available for the Champions League final against PSG later this month.
However, much will depend on how smoothly the next phase of his rehabilitation progresses.
Potential return date: Champions League final vs PSG — 30 May 2026
| Player | Injury | Potential Return |
|---|---|---|
| Ben White | Knee injury | Unknown |
| Riccardo Calafiori | Undisclosed | 18 May vs Burnley |
| Jurrien Timber | Groin injury | Unknown |
| Mikel Merino | Foot injury | 30 May vs PSG |
Source: club updates and manager comments – 10 May 2026
What’s next?
Arsenal now have a full week to prepare for a potentially decisive meeting with Burnley, knowing the Premier League title could be secured depending on Manchester City’s result against Crystal Palace FC.
Arteta’s biggest concern will now be whether his defensive options recover in time for the final stretch of the season.
With both domestic and European trophies still within reach, Arsenal’s injury situation could prove decisive.
Can Arsenal overcome these defensive injuries and finally secure the Premier League title?
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