Arteta Confirms Arsenal Injury Boost Ahead Of Crystal Palace Clash, PSG Final

Spanish tactician, Mikel Arteta has revealed mixed injury news ahead of Arsenal’s final two matches of the season, with midfielder Mikel Merino returning to training while defender Jurrien Timber remains sidelined.

The newly crowned Premier League champions travel to Crystal Palace on Sunday before facing Paris Saint-Germain in next weekend’s Champions League final.

Arsenal secured their first league title in 22 years earlier this week after Manchester City were held to a 1-1 draw by Bournemouth, ending the title race with one game still to play.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Arteta confirmed that Merino is close to full fitness after injury.

He said: “Mikel is going to start to train with the group tomorrow. Today was a light session.

“Jurrien, let’s hope he can do the same in the next few days. He’s a bit further behind than Mikel.”

The update comes as Arsenal continue preparations for what could become the most memorable finish to a season in the club’s modern history.

While the squad and coaching staff reportedly gathered at the Sobha Realty training ground to watch City’s result unfold, Arteta was understood to be at home with his family when confirmation of the title arrived.

The Spaniard later joined players and staff at Tape nightclub in Soho, where celebrations stretched into the early hours.

During the title party, Arteta praised his squad and described them as “champions of England” in an emotional speech to players and supporters.

Teenage prospects Marli Salmon and Max Dowman, both aged 16, were also part of the celebrations as Arsenal marked the end of a historic wait for league glory.