Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard and forward Kai Havertz were not seen at open training but will be available for selection in the Champions League semi-final second leg against Atletico Madrid at the Emirates Stadium on May 5, manager Mikel Arteta confirmed yesterday [1]. "They are available, both in the squad. Great, because we need options and the capacity to play in the squad," Arteta said [1].
The semi-final tie between Arsenal and Atletico is finely poised at 1-1 after the first leg in Madrid, where both goals were scored from penalties [1]. Arsenal currently lead the Premier League table with three games remaining in the season, underscoring their strong form domestically [1].
Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone revealed his side changed hotels ahead of the return leg in London, joking the switch was driven by cost rather than superstition. "We're better off now than we were in October. And the hotel was cheaper. That's why we changed," he said [1].
Despite doubts over his fitness, Atletico included forward Julian Alvarez in the traveling squad. Alvarez has scored 20 goals and provided nine assists in 48 appearances this season. Simeone praised his importance for such high-stakes matches, saying, "Julian in this type of game is important. He knows the league very well. Last week's game was very good. I hope that tomorrow he can respond in the way the game wants" [1].
Arteta expressed eagerness for the match, adding, "I can't wait. I feel the energy in and around the team. Together we have done a lot of work as a club and as a team. They have been waiting a long time to have this kind of night. Something amazing can happen" [1]. The second leg is set for today at the Emirates Stadium, where Arsenal will seek to clinch a place in the Champions League final [1].