West Ham vs Arsenal Preview: Key Absences and Match Context

West Ham host Arsenal at London Stadium, London, on 2026-05-10 (15:30 UTC) in Premier League Regular Season - 36. West Ham arrive in 18th place on 36 points with a goal difference of -19, while Arsenal sit 1st with 76 points and a goal difference of 41 as they chase the title.

West Ham & Arsenal Availability

West Ham have one confirmed absentee. L. Fabianski (Back Injury) is sidelined. The experienced goalkeeper’s absence reduces depth behind current options, but West Ham’s main attacking creator J. Bowen (8 goals, 10 assists) is available, a major boost for a side battling relegation.

Arsenal have two notable concerns. M. Merino (Foot Injury) is sidelined, removing a midfield option who contributes to their control in possession. J. Timber (Ankle Injury) is doubtful. As a defender with 3 goals and 5 assists, his potential absence would be a major blow to Arsenal’s build-up and set-piece threat from the back.

No suspensions due to yellow cards or red cards are listed for either side.

Impact Summary

West Ham’s attacking output remains largely intact with J. Bowen fit to start. Arsenal, however, risk losing some balance: Merino’s absence trims midfield rotation, and if Timber does not feature, they lose a defender who adds 8 direct goal contributions, slightly reducing their offensive variety from deep.