AFCON 2025
Arsenal could be without several key players ahead of Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg against Atletico Madrid, after Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz, and Jurrien Timber all missed the club’s open training session.
The absence of the trio raises fresh concerns for manager Mikel Arteta, with the tie delicately balanced at 1-1 following the first leg in Madrid.
Odegaard was forced off during that encounter after aggravating a knee issue, while Havertz picked up a muscular injury in Arsenal’s recent league win over Newcastle. Timber, on the other hand, is still recovering from an ankle injury and has not played since March.
Arteta had earlier expressed hope that both Odegaard and Havertz would be available, but their absence from training suggests a late fitness decision will be made ahead of the decisive clash.
The first leg ended 1-1 in Madrid, with both sides showing discipline and tactical control. Atletico Madrid relied on their compact defensive shape and counter-attacking threat, while Arsenal dominated possession but struggled to break down Diego Simeone’s well-organised side.
The result leaves everything to play for in the return leg, with Arsenal holding a slight psychological edge heading into the home fixture.
Arsenal vs Atletico Madrid; What to Expect
The second leg is expected to be tightly contested, with both teams likely to approach the game cautiously.
Arsenal will aim to control possession and create chances through their attacking patterns, but the potential absence of Odegaard and Havertz could limit their creativity in the final third.
Atletico Madrid are likely to stick to their disciplined defensive approach, looking to frustrate Arsenal and capitalise on counter-attacks or set-piece opportunities.
The outcome may be determined by fine margins, including individual moments of brilliance, defensive errors, or tactical adjustments from both managers.
