Arsenal receive injury boost as Eberechi Eze returns to training ahead of Champions League semi-final first leg against Atletico Madrid

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta received a welcome selection lift on Tuesday, 28 April 2026, as Eberechi Eze returned to training ahead of the club’s UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg against Atletico Madrid in Spain.

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The England midfielder was seen on the training pitch at the club’s base after limping off during Arsenal’s 1-0 Premier League win over Newcastle United last weekend, raising initial concerns over his availability.

The development provides a timely boost for Arsenal as they prepare for a crucial European tie against Atletico Madrid at the Wanda Metropolitano, where momentum could prove decisive over two legs.

Defender Riccardo Calafiori also joined first-team training, marking a positive step in his recovery after being sidelined since early April.

His return adds further depth to Arsenal’s defensive options at a critical stage of the season.

However, concerns remain over Kai Havertz, who also picked up a knock against Newcastle.

Arteta previously described the issue as a “niggle”, though the midfielder is expected to miss the midweek European fixture as a precaution.

Jurrien Timber remained absent from training, with no clear timeline yet provided for his return, leaving Arsenal short of defensive reinforcement heading into the semi-final.

The injury boost offers encouragement for supporters, although fitness doubts over key players continue to cast uncertainty over Arteta’s final squad selection.

Also read: Luis Enrique Names Strong PSG Squad Ahead Bayern Clash

Arsenal head into the clash aiming to take a strong result back to London, with both sides aware that fine margins could decide a place in the Champions League final.