Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed the reason behind Mikel Merino and Ben White’s absence from the matchday squad that faced Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium. According to Arteta, both players were not fit enough to participate in the game. Speaking to Sky Sports, Arteta said, “They couldn’t be involved, if not they would have been involved. Unfortunately, after the game [vs Ipswich] we had some issues and they are not fit.”
Merino has been impressive in recent months, playing as a makeshift forward due to injuries to Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus. His absence was felt in the team, and Arteta’s comments suggest that the Spaniard’s injury might be a cause for concern. White, on the other hand, has been building up his match fitness after missing a large part of the season due to a knee injury. His return to the team is crucial for Arsenal’s defensive solidity.
The fitness of both players will be a major concern for Arsenal as they take on Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final next Tuesday. Arteta’s team has made a strong impression in the competition, knocking out Real Madrid 5-1 on aggregate to reach the semi-finals. A fit and healthy squad will be essential for Arsenal’s chances of progressing to the final.
Fitness Concerns
Arteta’s comments suggest that Merino and White’s injuries might not be serious, but the Arsenal manager will be keen to assess their fitness levels before the PSG game. “If not they would have been involved,” Arteta said, implying that both players would have been part of the squad if they were fit. The absence of two key players will be a challenge for Arteta, but he will be looking to his squad players to step up and make an impact.
Upcoming Fixtures
Arsenal’s upcoming fixtures are crucial, with the PSG game in the Champions League semi-final followed by other important matches in the Premier League. Arteta’s team will need to be at full strength to compete with the best teams in Europe. With Merino and White’s fitness in doubt, Arteta will be working hard to get his players back to full fitness before the big games.
In the meantime, Arsenal fans will be hoping that Merino and White’s injuries are minor and that they will be available for the PSG game. The team’s performance against Palace showed that they have the talent and depth to compete with anyone, but fitness will be a key factor in their success.