Arsenal vs Chelsea Carabao Cup Semi-Final: Injury News Roundup
As Arsenal and Chelsea prepare for their highly anticipated Carabao Cup semi-final second leg on Tuesday night, both teams are grappling with significant injury concerns. The Gunners hold a slender one-goal advantage from the first leg, having secured a 3-2 victory at Stamford Bridge last month, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter with a Wembley Stadium final spot at stake.
Arsenal's Injury Woes
Mikel Arteta's side faces fresh setbacks ahead of this crucial match. Mikel Merino has been ruled out due to a foot fracture, with Arteta confirming the need for a surgical procedure, describing it as a big blow for the team. Meanwhile, Max Dowman is nearing a return but remains unavailable for a couple more weeks, as the club adopts a cautious approach to his recovery. Bukayo Saka is listed as a doubt, with Arteta indicating that a decision on his availability will be made closer to kick-off, though the issue is not considered serious.
Chelsea's Absences
Chelsea's squad is also depleted, with several key players sidelined. Tosin Adarabioyo is out for approximately two weeks, while Romeo Lavia is expected back next week after positive progress in his rehabilitation. Dario Essugo will not return until early March, and Estevao Willian is absent for personal reasons, though he could be available for the weekend. In goal, Filip Jorgensen is a doubt but is close to fitness, potentially returning for this match or the subsequent game. Levi Colwill remains out, with hopes he might feature before the season ends, but the club is taking a step-by-step approach to his recovery. Additionally, Mykhailo Mudryk is suspended due to anti-doping charges and is not included in the injury count.
This comprehensive injury update highlights the challenges both managers face as they aim to secure a place in the Carabao Cup final, with squad depth and tactical adjustments likely to play pivotal roles in the outcome.
