Mikel Arteta gives cryptic Arsenal injury update for PSG clash as one star fails to make fitness return

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Arsenal are set to face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League at the Emirates on Tuesday night.

Perhaps the biggest game in the North London club’s recent history, the pressure is on Mikel Arteta to deliver European silverware after missing out on the Premier League title to Liverpool.

Arsenal demolished Real Madrid in the quarter-final, and will be confident that they can emulate their displays in that tie in the semi-finals against PSG.

Arteta will be without Gabriel Magalhaes for the visit of the French Champions, while the likes of Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus remain on the sidelines with long-term injuries.

• READ MORE: Mikel Arteta actually won a European trophy with PSG before making Arsenal switch

Mikel Arteta issues triple injury update ahead of Arsenal v PSG

Aside from the likes of Gabriel, Havertz and Jesus, Arteta should have an almost fully fit squad at his disposal for the first leg.

Mikel Merino and Ben White missed Arsenal’s game against Crystal Palace with slight knocks and have subsequently been labelled as doubts for Tuesday night.

However, both Merino and White were spotted in training at London Colney on Monday afternoon, easing fears that the duo won’t be available.

Speaking to the media on Monday evening, Arteta confirmed that he expects both players to be in contention to play against PSG.

“Obviously we know we lost Thomas unfortunately very late in the game against Real Madrid,” he said.

“Ben and Mikel, they were able to train. Let’s see whether they are able to start tomorrow.”

Meanwhile, Riccardo Calafiori hasn’t played in any of Arsenal’s last seven matches due to a knee injury he sustained whilst on international duty with Italy in March.

Arteta was less optimistic about the 22-year-old’s chances of playing any role against the Ligue 1 side.

“Riccy is still not fit,” the Arsenal boss said.

Mikel Merino could be crucial for Arsenal against PSG

Thomas Partey is suspended for the home leg against PSG, meaning Merino will likely drop back into his natural midfield role.

Arsenal expect PSG to press them high up the pitch, which could make the Euro 2024 winner a pivotal player in the tie.

The Gunners may look to bypass the PSG press by going long frequently, and Merino will be the target for these long-balls.

If Arsenal are to effectively evade Enrique’s high press, it’ll be because the former Real Sociedad man holds the ball up well and wins his aerial battles.

It’s imperative that he’s fit for Arteta and Arsenal.