Arsenal anticipates the return of a number of injured players prior to Wednesday’s first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 against FC Porto. With a remarkable tally of 21 goals and five consecutive victories, the Gunners have regained momentum and are optimistic that the return of key personnel will further improve their on-field performance.

Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko, both of whom are approaching fitness and are anticipated to return to competition, are among the absentees. Furthermore, a ray of optimism for the squad is the steady improvement in the recuperation processes of Fabio Vieira and Thomas Partey, both of whom are afflicted with more protracted injuries.Additionally, Takehiro Tomiyasu, whose versatility could prove indispensable for Arsenal’s impending Champions League match against Porto, is anticipated to return shortly. Nevertheless, Jurrien Timber will remain inactive for the club due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury; his anticipated return date is still several weeks from now.

Tomiyasu, who has been hampered by a minor setback since his return from the Asian Cup, is probable to be included in the squad for the Porto match. Gabriel Jesus, who has been sidelined with a knee injury, is anticipated to return to action against Porto on Wednesday. In a similar fashion, Oleksandr Zinchenko, who has been sidelined with a calf injury, plans to return on the same day.

In the interim, Fabio Vieira, who underwent groin surgery in November but has already returned against Porto, has demonstrated encouraging indications of recovery. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta reports that Thomas Partey, who has been suspended for four months due to a thigh injury, is making promising progress and may potentially return to the field in March. Although the inclusion of these crucial personnel will undeniably enhance the overall strength of Arsenal’s squad and improve their prospects for triumph in domestic and European competitions, the precise timetable for Jurrien Timber’s return is still unknown.