Arsenal and Real Madrid enter their Champions League quarterfinal showdown with significant injury concerns on both sides. The Gunners, having dropped points in the Premier League title race, now face the daunting task of overcoming the reigning European champions with a depleted squad.
Arsenal’s defensive options have been severely limited with Gabriel Magalhaes ruled out after sustaining a hamstring injury requiring surgery. This blow comes alongside the absence of Riccardo Calafiori, who picked up a knee injury during international duty, leaving Mikel Arteta with limited options at center-back.
The North London side will also be without Raheem Sterling due to suspension after accumulating too many yellow cards in the competition. Long-term absentees Gabriel Jesus (ACL), Takehiro Tomiyasu (knee), and Kai Havertz (hamstring) complete Arsenal’s injury list.
Real Madrid aren’t without their own concerns. Carlo Ancelotti’s side will be missing key midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni through suspension, while defensive stalwarts Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao remain sidelined with ACL injuries.
The Spanish giants are facing uncertainty in goal, with both Thibaut Courtois and Andriy Lunin listed as doubts due to muscular issues. Ancelotti has reportedly been prioritizing this fixture for Courtois’ return. Ferland Mendy and former Arsenal midfielder Dani Ceballos are also questionable for the clash.
Both teams enter the fixture following disappointing domestic results – Arsenal drew with Everton while Madrid suffered a surprising home defeat to Valencia. These setbacks could add extra motivation as they shift focus to European glory.
The first leg at the Emirates Stadium represents a critical opportunity for Arsenal to establish an advantage before traveling to the Santiago Bernabéu for the return fixture. How Arteta addresses his defensive concerns could prove decisive in determining whether the Gunners can overcome the European champions.
