Arsenal injury update: Odegaard, Havertz and Timber latest before Atletico

Arsenal’s Premier League title charge gathered pace at the weekend, but attention now quickly shifts to Europe and the biggest injury question facing Mikel Arteta.

After a commanding 3-0 win over Fulham pushed Arsenal six points clear of Manchester City, the focus around the Emirates has turned to fitness ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League semi-final second leg against Atlético Madrid.

The result against Fulham was impressive, but it came without several important players.

And with Arsenal chasing a first European crown, getting key names back could shape the rest of their season.

Martin Ødegaard was left out of the squad entirely against Fulham after struggling with an ongoing knee issue.

It is not a new problem.

The Arsenal captain has managed discomfort for much of the season, and concerns grew after he was forced off in Madrid during the first leg.

But the latest update sounds encouraging.

Speaking after the Fulham win, Mikel Arteta suggested Odegaard has a realistic chance of returning for Tuesday.

“I think so, the both of them.” — Mikel Arteta on Odegaard and Havertz

That will be welcome news.

Based on recent matches we’ve covered, Arsenal’s attacking tempo and pressing structure often flow through Odegaard’s movement and decision-making.

Without him, their rhythm changes.

Potential return date: Atletico Madrid (H), 5 May 2026

Kai Havertz has also been missing after picking up a muscle issue during Arsenal’s narrow win over Newcastle United.

The German was withdrawn early that day and has not featured since.

Arteta described the issue as a muscular niggle rather than a serious injury, which immediately gave Arsenal hope.

And that optimism remains.

The manager confirmed both Havertz and Odegaard are pushing hard to be available for the Atletico second leg.

“They are going to do everything, we are going to do everything, to have them ready.” — Mikel Arteta

Havertz’s flexibility has become vital this season, especially in big matches where tactical adjustments matter.

However, much will depend on how he responds in the final sessions before kick-off.

Potential return date: Atletico Madrid (H), 5 May 2026

Jurrien Timber remains Arsenal’s biggest defensive uncertainty.

The defender has not played in over a month after suffering a groin injury against Everton in March. His absence has been significant.

Timber had become Arsenal’s first-choice right-back during a crucial stretch of the campaign, and his balance between defending and progression has been missed.

The latest update is less definitive. Arteta confirmed Timber is back doing work on the pitch, but stopped short of offering a return date.

That usually suggests progress, but not immediate availability.

Potential return date: Unknown

Mikel Merino is making progress, but Arsenal are staying patient.

The midfielder has been sidelined since February after suffering a stress fracture in his foot against Manchester United.

Recovery from that type of injury can be unpredictable.

Arteta admitted Merino is pushing hard in rehab, but a comeback before the end of the campaign remains uncertain.

Having followed Arsenal closely this season, Merino’s return would add control and depth at a time when squad freshness could become critical.

Still, it remains too early to know if that will happen.

Potential return date: Unknown

Tuesday’s clash with Atletico Madrid will shape Arsenal’s season.

Reaching the Champions League final would mark a major step in Arteta’s project, but fitness could be decisive. Odegaard and Havertz returning would significantly improve Arsenal’s attacking options and overall control, especially in a high-pressure knockout match.

Beyond Europe, Arsenal’s Premier League run-in remains demanding, and managing workloads will be just as important as results.