Arsenal gains Champions League advantage as Dembele faces fitness race

Arsenal's prospects for the Champions League semi-final second leg against Paris Saint-Germain have improved after PSG confirmed Ousmane Dembele, who scored the only goal in the first leg, is doubtful due to a hamstring injury. Dembele's absence would be a significant setback for PSG, as he has been a central figure in their recent success. PSG manager Luis Enrique has ruled Dembele out of their next domestic match and stated his recovery is being monitored, leaving his availability for the Arsenal clash uncertain. Meanwhile, Arsenal are unlikely to have Jorginho or Riccardo Calafiori back for the return leg, though Calafiori could resume first-team duties next week. Should Arsenal progress to the final, they may also benefit from the possible return of Kai Havertz, who is making good progress in his recovery from hamstring surgery. Overall, these developments offer Arsenal a timely lift as they look to overturn a 1-0 deficit and advance to the Champions League final.