The Digest:
Arsenal and Atletico Madrid are facing major selection headaches ahead of their Champions League semi-final showdown, with up to 11 players potentially missing the clash. Atletico are sweating on the fitness of Julian Alvarez (major doubt), Ademola Lookman (doubt), and Jose Maria Gimenez, while Pablo Barrios is ruled out. Arsenal will be without Mikel Merino, Riccardo Calafiori, and Jurrien Timber, with Kai Havertz and Eberechi Eze also doubts.
Key Points:
- Alexander Sorloth's late scare was only a cramp, easing fears for Atletico.
- Lookman has not featured since the Copa del Rey final.
- Alvarez has missed Atletico's last four league matches with a thigh issue.
- Eze said his knock was precautionary, but his injury history is a concern.
- Arteta described Havertz's issue as a "muscular niggle."
Both managers face difficult decisions as they prepare for the crucial first leg.
Sources: Goal, Sky Sports
