Arsenal Faces PSG with Key Injuries and Uncertainty: Latest Updates on Ben White and Martin Odegaard

Arsenal is gearing up for a crucial clash against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the 2024-25 Champions League at the Emirates Stadium this Tuesday evening. After a disappointing start with a goalless draw against Atalanta BC, where goalkeeper David Raya showcased his exceptional skills with a remarkable double save, the Gunners are determined to bounce back. They head into this pivotal match following an exciting 4-2 victory over Leicester City in the Premier League, keeping their unbeaten record intact.

However, injuries are clouding Arsenal's preparations. Here's the latest on their injury situation as they prepare to face the reigning French champions, who narrowly defeated Girona 1-0 in their opening European matchup.

Ben White: Major Doubt

- Type of Injury: Knee - Possible Return Date: October 1 (vs. PSG) Ben White is considered a major doubt for the encounter with PSG. He played through pain in his knee during the draw with Manchester City but has since aggravated the injury. Missing recent games against Bolton Wanderers and Leicester City, his participation in this crucial fixture remains uncertain.

Martin Odegaard: Out

- Type of Injury: Ankle - Possible Return Date: November 2 (vs. Newcastle United) The absence of Arsenal's captain, Martin Odegaard, was felt in the previous match against Atalanta. The Norwegian midfielder is sidelined with an ankle injury and is not expected to return to action until November, missing the high-stakes match against PSG.

Mikel Merino: Out

- Type of Injury: Shoulder - Possible Return Date: October 5 (vs. Southampton) Mikel Merino, acquired during the transfer window, suffered a shoulder fracture and will not be available for the PSG match. Nonetheless, manager Mikel Arteta hinted at the possibility of his debut against Southampton next weekend.

Takehiro Tomiyasu: Out

- Type of Injury: Knee - Possible Return Date: October 19 (vs. Bournemouth) After enduring a knee injury in pre-season, Takehiro Tomiyasu is back in partial training but remains behind his teammates in rehabilitation. His return before the upcoming international break seems unlikely.

Kieran Tierney: Out

- Type of Injury: Hamstring - Possible Return Date: Unknown Kieran Tierney has been on the sidelines for over three months due to a hamstring injury sustained during Euro 2024. There is no timetable for his return, leaving a gap in Arsenal's defense.

Oleksandr Zinchenko: Out

- Type of Injury: Calf - Possible Return Date: October 27 (vs. Liverpool) Oleksandr Zinchenko injured his calf just before the derby against Tottenham on September 15. Coach Arteta has expressed that the Ukrainian international requires additional weeks to regain full fitness.

Suspension Update

On a positive note, Arsenal does not have any players suspended for this crucial match against PSG.

With significant challenges ahead, Arsenal will need to rally without some of their key players as they aim for a vital victory at home. Fans will be eagerly watching to see how Mikel Arteta's squad adapts to these circumstances and whether they can secure three points against one of Europe's elite clubs.