Arsenal injury update ahead of Sporting CP clash has raised fresh concerns, with several key players now facing late fitness tests after the club’s FA Cup exit.
The Gunners were knocked out by Southampton on 4 April 2026, and the result was compounded by new injury worries, particularly surrounding Gabriel. According to post-match comments from Mikel Arteta, the defender’s condition remains unclear heading into a crucial week.
Arsenal injury update before Sporting CP Champions League tie
Gabriel’s situation is the most immediate concern. After recovering from a previous issue to start against Southampton, the centre-back was forced off in the second half with what appeared to be a knee problem.
“I don’t know exactly what it is. When a player asks to come off, it’s never good news.” — Mikel Arteta, via club media
The Brazilian had already withdrawn from international duty due to discomfort, and this latest setback puts his availability in serious doubt for the upcoming European fixture.
Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice nearing return
There is more optimism surrounding Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice, both of whom were rested at the weekend after pulling out of international duty.
Saka was kept out as a precaution, with Arteta suggesting he was close to being involved. Rice, meanwhile, has been managing an ongoing issue but could return in time for the Champions League.
From the last few Arsenal matches we’ve covered, both players have been central to the team’s structure, particularly in transition and attacking phases. However, much will depend on late fitness assessments.
Potential return dates:
- Bukayo Saka: 7 April 2026 vs Sporting CP (A)
- Declan Rice: 7 April 2026 vs Sporting CP (A)
Jurrien Timber and Leandro Trossard also in contention
Jurrien Timber and Leandro Trossard are also expected to be in the mix for selection. Timber has been recovering from an ankle issue, while Trossard missed recent international fixtures to continue rehabilitation.
Both players were close to featuring against Southampton but were ultimately left out, suggesting their involvement in Lisbon remains a realistic possibility.
Potential return dates:
- Jurrien Timber: 7 April 2026 vs Sporting CP (A)
- Leandro Trossard: 7 April 2026 vs Sporting CP (A)
Longer-term concerns for Arsenal squad
Elsewhere, several players face extended spells on the sidelines. Eberechi Eze is expected to miss a number of weeks with a calf injury, while Mikel Merino remains unavailable following foot surgery.
Piero Hincapié has also returned from international duty early to begin recovery from an unspecified issue, with no confirmed timeline for his return.
| Player | Status | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Gabriel | Under assessment | Unknown |
| Bukayo Saka | Close to return | 7 April 2026 |
| Declan Rice | Close to return | 7 April 2026 |
| Jurrien Timber | Recovering | 7 April 2026 |
| Leandro Trossard | Recovering | 7 April 2026 |
| Eberechi Eze | Injured | May 2026 |
| Mikel Merino | Injured | Unknown |
source: club updates – 6 April 2026
Key Insights
- Gabriel is a major doubt after picking up a fresh injury
- Saka and Rice could return for the Sporting CP clash
- Timber and Trossard are also close to full fitness
- Arsenal face multiple injury concerns at a crucial stage
- The Champions League is now a key focus after FA Cup exit
What’s next for Arsenal?
Arsenal travel to face Sporting CP on 7 April 2026 in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final. The fixture comes at a critical moment following their FA Cup elimination.
Arteta will likely make late decisions on several players, with training sessions in the coming days set to determine availability. Squad rotation and risk management will be key factors.
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