Arsenal injury concerns grow as Noni Madueke and Jurrien Timber race for PSG final

Arsenal's Premier League title celebrations have quickly shifted into Champions League concern after fresh fitness issues emerged before Saturday's meeting with Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest.

Mikel Arteta's side head into only the club's second-ever Champions League final chasing a historic double after sealing the league title, but injuries are threatening to complicate preparations at exactly the wrong time.

While Mikel Merino returned to action against Crystal Palace in a positive development, uncertainty now surrounds several key names.

Noni Madueke has emerged as Arsenal's newest injury worry after being forced off late in the victory over Crystal Palace.

The forward was seen receiving treatment while holding his left hamstring before eventually being replaced by Viktor Gyokeres. The immediate concern comes from the timing rather than confirmed severity, with only days remaining before the final.

There has been no official update on the extent of the issue.

However, reports indicate Madueke was moving normally before and after Arsenal's title celebrations, offering encouragement that the problem may not be serious.

Potential return date: Saturday 30 May vs PSG

Arsenal's right-back situation remains more complicated.

Jurrien Timber has now missed more than two months after suffering a groin injury during the victory against Everton in March. The Dutch defender has subsequently missed 14 matches and was also forced to withdraw from international duty.

Despite the lengthy absence, Timber has not ruled himself out.

“Hopefully, yes. There's hope, but like I said, we'll see. I'm working really hard and obviously playing in the Champions League final is a dream.”

Potential return date: Saturday 30 May vs PSG

Ben White's situation appears much clearer, although not in a positive way for Arsenal.

The defender suffered a significant medial ligament injury following his collision against West Ham and has already been ruled out for the remainder of the campaign.

The positive aspect for Arsenal is that surgery will reportedly not be required, reducing fears over a much longer recovery period.

Current expectations suggest White could recover in time for pre-season preparations ahead of next season.

Potential return date: Unknown

Arsenal's medical team now faces a crucial few days before final decisions are made regarding availability for the Champions League final.

Arteta will hope to welcome at least one of Madueke or Timber back into the squad as preparation work intensifies this week. PSG's attacking threat means defensive stability and squad depth could become decisive factors.

Finals rarely arrive with perfect circumstances, but Arsenal will be desperate to avoid any further setbacks.

Which absence would hurt Arsenal more against PSG: Timber's defensive presence or Madueke's attacking threat?