Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Riccardo Calafiori and Ethan Nwaneri are available for selection for Wednesday's Champions League encounter with Dinamo Zagreb. However, William Saliba will remain sidelined as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury.

Key Injury Updates

• Riccardo Calafiori and Ethan Nwaneri: Both players have returned to full training following recent setbacks. Calafiori, who had been out since the FA Cup loss to Manchester United, could slot back into his left-back role, while Nwaneri, sidelined since January 4, provides Arteta with a much-needed option in attack.

Arteta said in his press conference:

"Very positive news, we missed them for a few weeks, and they returned to training, so they'll be available for the game."

• William Saliba: The French defender continues to recover from his hamstring injury. Arteta offered optimism about his progress but confirmed that the clash against Dinamo Zagreb is too soon for his return.

"He's evolving well, the last few days he was feeling much better already, but this game comes a bit too soon for him."

When asked about Saliba’s availability for the Premier League showdown with Manchester City on February 2, Arteta added:

"Yes, I hope so."

• Bukayo Saka: Saka, recovering from a hamstring operation, remains on track for his expected late March return. Arteta noted that the 23-year-old is progressing steadily but emphasized the importance of respecting the recovery timeline.

Arsenal’s Current Injury List

Saliba’s absence adds to an already challenging situation, with Ben White, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Gabriel Jesus, and Bukayo Saka also sidelined. Arteta will need to manage his squad carefully to maintain their Champions League ambitions and Premier League competitiveness.

Champions League Implications

Arsenal enter the penultimate group stage matchday in third place in the Champions League's 36-team table. A win against Dinamo Zagreb could significantly enhance their chances of automatic qualification for the last 16.

The Gunners last faced Dinamo Zagreb in the 2015-16 Champions League group stage, suffering a 2-1 defeat away but responding with a dominant 3-0 win at the Emirates under Arsène Wenger.

Looking Ahead

Arsenal must balance their squad amid mounting injuries as they pursue success both domestically and in Europe. The return of Calafiori and Nwaneri is a welcome boost, but all eyes will be on the race to restore key players like Saliba and Saka for the critical fixtures ahead.