Arsenal embark on a pivotal clash with PSG in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final, and Mikel Arteta could have his best squad possible for this encounter. The Gunners are trailing the Parisians by a single goal following the loss at the Emirates in the reverse leg, and they will hope to turn things around in the French capital.
During his pre-match press conference, Arteta was asked much about the game as there’s very little to report on fitness and injuries. The Gunners boss spoke about the confidence of going through to the final as well as how important this game is for the club and himself.
However, there were some positives when it came to player fitness heading into Wednesday’s clash. Amid some doubts over Jurrien Timber’s fitness, the right-back was present in training and could be fit for the clash. Riccardo Calafiori also made his return to training, and Arteta said the Italian was available for selection for the second leg.
The Arsenal manager said, “Yeah, he’s travelled, and he’s fit and he’s ready to play when we need him. So that’s great news obviously.”
In terms of the team selection, Arteta could name a familiar side, although the big boost will be the availability of Timber and key midfielder Thomas Partey. Myles Lewis-Skelly is expected to play left-back despite Calafiori’s availability, with William Saliba and Jakub Kiwior tucked in the central defensive positions.
Martin Odegaard will keep his place in the midfield setup, and the Arsenal captain will aim to improve his form at this crucial time of the season. He will have the luxury of a familiar setup beside him as Partey sits at the base of the midfield, with Declan Rice returning to his place on the left-hand side.
Mikel Merino is expected to move back into the No.9 role and lead the line for the away side against PSG. Gabriel Martinelli will feature on the left, with Bukayo Saka on the right for the Gunners.
Predicted Arsenal XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Saka, Merino, Martinelli
