Arsenal hit by double injury scare ahead of PSG tie as Ben White and Mikel Merino emerge as doubts for Champions League semi-final

The duo played no part in the Gunners’ 2-2 home draw with Crystal Palace on Wednesday, with neither making the matchday squad. Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed prior to kick-off at the Emirates that both players were unavailable due to issues sustained after Arsenal’s previous Premier League outing – a hard-fought victory over Ipswich Town on Sunday. Their absence was keenly felt in a game that saw Arsenal twice surrender the lead, eventually sharing the spoils with the visiting Eagles.

Merino’s availability is particularly crucial for Arteta’s side, given the unique role he’s played in recent months. With Arsenal hit by a series of injuries to their forwards, Merino has taken on an unorthodox role leading the line — a position typically outside his comfort zone as a central midfielder. His adaptability and effectiveness in that position were on full display during the Gunners' Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid, where he found the back of the net once and provided two assists over the two legs.

Speaking after the match, Arteta was asked whether White and Merino would be available for the PSG encounter next week. His response did little to calm nerves: “We’ll have to wait and see, they weren’t able to be in the squad today.”

White had only recently made his comeback from a significant knee injury that required surgery in November. He had been reintegrated into the squad over the past few weeks and was expected to reclaim his starting spot, particularly with the defensive unit stretched due to fixture congestion and minor knocks throughout the squad. However, the latest fitness issue has again sidelined the England international, raising concerns over his ability to maintain consistent availability during a crucial stretch of the season.

With the first leg against Paris Saint-Germain just days away, Arsenal’s injury list presents a potential hurdle in their pursuit of European glory. With domestic form faltering - Arsenal have now won just once in their last four league matches - the pressure is mounting for Arteta’s men to deliver in Europe. Hence, the north London side will hope that their absent duo can recover in time to contribute to what is shaping up to be one of the most significant fixtures of their season.