Arsenal Women Prepare for Champions League Clash in Barcelona Amid Fitness Concerns
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Arsenal Women are set to face Barcelona this Thursday in the Champions League, despite several fitness concerns. Encouragingly, Ona Batlle is expected to join the squad for the trip to Camp Nou.
Renée Slegers‘ team travels to Spain following a 2-1 victory over Liverpool, where Alessia Russo scored both goals for the team.
However, the win came with a downside, as Taylor Hinds needed treatment late in the match and was replaced by Lotte Wubben-Moy shortly before the match concluded.
The specifics of Hinds’ injury have yet to be confirmed, leading to concerns about her availability for the trip.
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In a more positive update, Batlle’s injury situation looks to be improving.
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She missed the match against Liverpool due to a knock, but the team’s recent update indicates she may feature against Barcelona.
Uncertainty surrounds the status of Stina Blackstenius, who missed the previous match due to an Achilles issue and requires additional testing, as reported by Tim Stillman.
In Blackstenius’ absence, academy forward Mia Dixon was called up for the match against Liverpool.
Chloe Kelly is also nearing a return from a hamstring issue, as Arsenal reports she is “working towards a return to the squad,” although there are no guarantees for Thursday’s match.
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In addition, Mariona Caldentey was unavailable against Liverpool due to a hamstring injury, while Selina Cerci was also unable to play due to a knee problem.
Both players will not return in time for Thursday’s match.
Katie Reid remains out of action due to an ankle injury that will keep her sidelined until Christmas, and Michelle Agyemang is still in recovery from an ACL injury.
In a positive turn of events, Daphne van Domselaar has returned to the bench after recovering from an injury. Both Frida Maanum and Kim Little also contributed, providing the team with more options leading into the match against Barcelona.
Arsenal’s next update will likely shed light on Batlle’s return and the extent of Hinds’ injury, alongside developments regarding Blackstenius and Kelly. The highly anticipated match is scheduled to kick off at 5:45 p.m. UK time, marking Arsenal Women’s first appearance at Camp Nou.
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