Arsenal secured a 1-0 win over Newcastle United on Saturday afternoon to reclaim the top spot in the Premier League standings, but Manchester City still have a major chance to clinch the title next month
Arsenal leapfrogged Manchester City back into first-place in the Premier League on Saturday evening, but the Sky Blues still have the ball in their court in the title race. The Gunners are three points clear of City following a 1-0 win over Newcastle United at the Emirates Stadium.
Eberechi Eze scored the decisive goal nine minutes into the action from a well-worked corner – a common theme this season. However, given City have a valuable game in hand and lag Arsenal by just one in terms of goal difference, a couple of big results in their final five could see Pep Guardiola’s side storm to pole position once more.
Arsenal are also plagued by injuries at present, picking up another two issues during Saturday’s clash in the capital…
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Ebere Eze
Despite proving the match-winner and collecting the Player of the Match award, Eze was hauled off less than 10 minutes into the second half. While supporters feared the versatile attacking midfielder could be facing a spell on the treatment table, Eze was swift to address his condition with Sky Sports at the final whistle.
He explained: “Yeah, I’m alright. I’m all good,” before adding: “Just precaution, didn’t want to do anything. Yeah, I’ll be okay.”
Potential return date: Wednesday, April 29 vs Atletico Madrid (A)
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Kai Havertz
Havertz was also substituted for Viktor Gyokeres just 35 minutes into the match, having received treatment on the pitch before Mikel Arteta ultimately made the decision to withdraw him, with the forward heading straight down the tunnel for further evaluation.
Speaking after the final whistle, Arteta addressed both Havertz and Eze’s conditions, saying: “Lets see, at the moment they have to be looked after but hopefully they’re going to be okay.”
In his post-match press conference, he further explained: “Muscular niggles, we don’t think it is too much.”
Potential return date: Wednesday, April 29 vs Atletico Madrid (A)
Riccardo Calafiori
The Italian was absent from Saturday’s squad entirely as he continues his recovery from an ongoing issue. Nevertheless, Arteta offered an update on Calafiori prior to the game, with the defender also spotted participating in a training session on the pitch following the final whistle.
He said: “He was very close. But we have certain players that are coming back from injuries and can play certain moments as well, and we need to be balanced in what we need to.”
Potential return date: Wednesday, April 29 vs Atletico Madrid (A)
Jurrien Timber
Timber was also absent from Arteta’s squad for the Newcastle fixture due to a hip injury sustained nearly six weeks ago. Arteta has yet to provide a recent update on his condition.
Potential return date: Unknown
Mikel Merino
Although the Spaniard could yet feature before the campaign draws to a close, Arteta has been guarded about putting a timeframe on Merino’s comeback. The midfielder, who has been an integral part of Arsenal’s set-up since joining from Real Sociedad in 2024, is working his way back from a foot injury.
Arteta recently said of the player: “It’s a bit premature to say that [he will play again this season]. He’s evolving really well he’s really pushing every boundary that he possibly can but it’s a bit early to answer that question.”
Potential return date: Unknown







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