West Ham vs Arsenal Preview: Key Absences and Impact

Match Context

West Ham host Arsenal at London Stadium in London on 10 May 2026 in Premier League Regular Season - 36. West Ham come in 18th with 36 points and a goal difference of -19, while league leaders Arsenal sit 1st on 76 points with a +41 goal difference.

West Ham Availability

West Ham have one confirmed absentee. L. Fabianski (Back Injury) is sidelined. With Alphonse Areola available among several alternative goalkeepers, the impact is contained, and key creator J. Bowen (8 goals, 10 assists) is fully available to start in attack.

Arsenal Availability

Arsenal face more disruption in midfield and defense. M. Merino (Foot Injury) is sidelined, removing an experienced midfield option. J. Timber (Ankle Injury) is doubtful. Timber’s absence would be a major blow given his 3 goals and 5 assists from defense, underlining his dual role in buildup and chance creation.

Impact Summary

West Ham lose depth in goal but retain their main attacking threat in J. Bowen. Arsenal, however, risk being without one of their top-assisting defenders in Timber, slightly reducing their attacking output from the back, though leading scorer V. Gyökeres (14 goals, 1 assist) remains available to spearhead the frontline.