Arsenal’s Leverkusen squad update: Dowman returns but two miss out

Arsenal have two first-choice players out for their friendly against Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday after a double injury blow at the London Colney training ground. Kieran Tierney and Declan Rice are both unavailable, leaving Mikel Arteta with a headache ahead of the trip to Germany.

Dowman, however, returned to full training as the Gunners step up preparations for the new season. The 21-year-old midfielder has been working his way back after a minor knock and could feature against Leverkusen, who beat Arsenal 2-1 in last year’s pre-season clash.

What happened at Arsenal’s training ground?

Tierney, the Scotland left-back, missed the session with a calf issue, while Rice pulled up during a recent training drill. Both had been expected to play significant roles in Arteta’s push for a top-four finish and Champions League return.

Dowman’s presence is a boost for Arteta, who has prioritised fitness after a disrupted pre-season. The young midfielder’s recovery means he could feature against Leverkusen, though Arteta will tread carefully with the friendly’s low stakes.

Why it matters for Arsenal’s title push

The double blow comes as Arsenal prepare to face a Leverkusen side managed by Xabi Alonso, who has strengthened his squad with several high-profile arrivals. Arteta’s side, meanwhile, are still chasing a first league title since 2004 and will need every fit player available.

Tierney’s absence is particularly painful given his importance in Arsenal’s build-up play, while Rice’s midfield control is vital against teams that press high. Dowman’s return offers a partial solution, but Arteta may rotate heavily to manage workloads.

What comes next for Arteta’s squad?

The Leverkusen friendly is a chance to test fringe players and youngsters, with Jakub Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko likely to start. Arteta has also been linked with a late summer signing, though no deal has been finalised.

The Gunners’ next competitive test is the Premier League opener against Brighton on 17 August, where fitness will be key. For now, Arteta must navigate the injury crisis without disrupting his core plans.