Saka, Ødegaard, Timber Miss Training While Eze Rejoins Arsenal Squad
Sports Updated: 09 April 2026 19:15 EAT
Arsenal midfielder and versatile winger Eberechi Eze returns to team training
Eberechi Eze has handed Arsenal a timely injury boost after returning to training ahead of their upcoming Premier League clash against AFC Bournemouth on Saturday. The attacking midfielder had been sidelined in recent weeks with a calf problem, raising concerns over his availability during a crucial period of the season.
Eze’s absence had seen him miss Arsenal’s last three matches across all competitions, including their narrow win over Sporting CP in European action and the Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City. His return to first-team training now offers renewed hope that he could feature in the weekend fixture, although a final decision on his involvement is expected closer to kickoff.
The injury setback had initially been feared to be more serious, but medical assessments showed the issue was manageable. This allowed the player to begin recovery earlier than anticipated, eventually progressing back into full training with the squad this week.
Despite the positive development surrounding Eze, Arsenal’s training session highlighted ongoing concerns over several key players who were notably absent. Among those missing were Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, Jurrien Timber, and Riccardo Calafiori.
Saka, one of Arsenal’s most influential attacking players, has been out of action since the Carabao Cup final and continues to recover, with no clear timeline yet set for his return. His absence remains a significant concern for the technical bench as the team approaches a demanding run of fixtures.
Club captain Ødegaard was also not spotted in training, with reports indicating he is managing a minor setback after recently returning from injury. The Norwegian midfielder’s fitness will be closely monitored, given his importance in dictating Arsenal’s midfield play.
In defence, Timber’s absence is understood to be linked to a lingering groin issue that has kept him out for several weeks. The Dutch defender has endured a stop-start campaign due to injuries, and his continued unavailability limits Arsenal’s defensive options.
Calafiori, meanwhile, also missed the session, although there has been no strong indication of a serious injury concern. The Italian defender featured recently, suggesting his absence could be precautionary or related to workload management.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta now faces a delicate balancing act as he prepares his squad for the Bournemouth encounter. While Eze’s return is a major positive, the uncertainty surrounding several first-team regulars complicates selection decisions.
The club’s medical and coaching staff are expected to conduct late fitness assessments before finalizing the matchday squad. Much will depend on how players respond in the final training sessions leading up to the game.
As things stand, Arsenal approach the weekend fixture with a mixed outlook—encouraged by Eze’s recovery but still dealing with multiple injury concerns. The outcome of these fitness battles could play a decisive role in shaping their performance against Bournemouth.
Tags: 2025-2026 Season Premier League Winners Arsenal Arsenal Arsenal Fc Article Champions League English Premier League Epl Football For Life Sports Article Sports Commentary Sports Journalism The Arsenal Football Club Uefa Uefa Champions League
Share this article
FELIX MAKONA
FACT FINDER AND DATA DRIVEN JOURNALIST. DATA MINING AT IT'S BEST. GET FACTS RANGING FROM MATTERS DISABILITY AND INCLUSION, POLITICS, ECONOMY, SPORTS AND GENERAL NEWS AROUND THE WORLD