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Havertz Misses CL Semi-Final; Eze, Calafiori Fit

4/30/2026

28 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Havertz Out

Kai Havertz will miss the Champions League semi-final first leg against Atletico Madrid because of a groin injury that keeps him out until May 18 versus Burnley.
Eberechi Eze and Riccardo Calafiori are in the semi-final squad while Jurrien Timber remains a doubt with no return date set.
Mikel Merino may return on May 24 versus Crystal Palace after foot surgery while Arsenal have no players suspended for the Fulham match.

Summary

Arteta: Timber Out

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said it is premature to confirm Mikel Merino’s return this season, though the Spaniard is progressing well.
He confirmed Jurrien Timber is absent from the Atletico Madrid squad, that his return timeline is unknown, and that he is still completing rehabilitation steps.
Arteta noted Timber has missed the past six weeks due to injury, emphasizing the ongoing recovery process.

History

Historical Context

Chelsea’s 2012 Champions League semi-final win over Barcelona came without striker Fernando Torres, forcing a thin lineup. The club’s 2013 group-stage exit as defending champions showed how injuries can reshape tactics, a pattern echoed today as Arsenal’s Kai Havertz, Jurrien Timber and Mikel Merino miss crucial semi-final legs under Mikel Arteta.

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Havertz Out

Kai Havertz will miss the Champions League semi-final first leg against Atletico Madrid because of a groin injury that keeps him out until May 18 versus Burnley.
Eberechi Eze and Riccardo Calafiori are in the semi-final squad while Jurrien Timber remains a doubt with no return date set.
Mikel Merino may return on May 24 versus Crystal Palace after foot surgery while Arsenal have no players suspended for the Fulham match.

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