Arsenal's focus is firmly on a massive Premier League showdown this Sunday, but there was still cause for celebration at the Emirates on Wednesday night. The Gunners secured their spot in the Champions League semi-finals with a tense 0-0 draw against Sporting CP, setting up a thrilling clash with Atletico Madrid.

While the team celebrated a huge European milestone, all eyes are now on the fitness of key defender Riccardo Calafiori. The Italian star, a standout since his arrival, was absent from the matchday squad due to a minor fitness issue as a precautionary measure. The club is carefully managing his minutes to ensure he's ready for the relentless run-in.

This management strategy saw him miss the Bournemouth league game and last night's second leg, despite playing the full 90 minutes in Portugal a week ago. The good news for Mikel Arteta is that Calafiori's presence in the post-match dressing room celebrations, captured on social media, signals a positive mood, and reports suggest he is in contention to return for the titanic clash against Manchester City.

His potential availability is a major boost for a defense preparing to face the reigning champions. Having a player of Calafiori's caliber fit and integrated could be a decisive factor in a match that may well shape the title race.