The highly anticipated Champions League quarterfinal between Real Madrid and Arsenal is set to be a pivotal moment for both clubs as they chase European glory. Despite their different paths leading to this stage, both teams are hungry for silverware this season.
The first leg of this exciting matchup will be held at Arsenal`s home ground, Emirates Stadium, on Tuesday. This home advantage gives Arsenal the opportunity to dictate the tempo early in this crucial two-legged tie. While Arsenal`s Champions League form has been more consistent recently, they face pressure as this competition represents their last chance to secure a trophy this year. Their long wait of nearly two decades to reach the semifinals highlights the magnitude of the challenge ahead.
Arsenal vs. Real Madrid Predicted Starting Lineups
Here are the anticipated lineups for both teams:
Arsenal: David Raya; Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Jakub Kiwior, Myles Lewis-Skelly; Martin Odegaard, Thomas Partey, Declan Rice; Bukayo Saka, Mikel Merino, Gabriel Martinelli
Real Madrid: Thibaut Courtois; Raul Asencio, Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba; Rodrygo, Federico Valverde, Luka Modric, Eduardo Camavinga, Jude Bellingham; Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has emphasized the immense importance of this Champions League tie, calling it the most significant game of his managerial career.
“Absolutely, 100%. The excitement surrounding the club and the fans is palpable. This is exactly where Arsenal should be, consistently competing at this level,” Arteta stated during Monday`s pre-match press conference. “This is why I entered football, why I chose management, and especially why I came to this great club. It has been 20 years since Arsenal has experienced a game of this magnitude at this stage, and for us, it`s a fantastic opportunity to create our own history. That`s precisely what we are here to do.”
Arteta faces some key decisions regarding his starting eleven for Tuesday’s match. The good news for Arsenal is that Bukayo Saka is fit and available. However, they will be without Gabriel, who unfortunately suffered a season-ending hamstring injury last week. Gabriel`s absence adds to Arsenal`s injury list, which already includes Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz, both sidelined with long-term injuries sustained earlier in the season.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti is tasked with strategically utilizing his talented but sometimes inconsistent squad. Star players like Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior are expected to start. Ancelotti is still working on solutions to cover for the missing Dani Ceballos, out with a muscle injury, and Dani Carvajal, recovering from an ACL tear. Federico Valverde`s versatility is expected to play a crucial role, offering tactical flexibility for Real Madrid.
Ancelotti commented on Valverde’s role, “There`s a question about his position. He is capable in many roles, centrally or on the wing. I am still considering the best approach.”
How to Watch Arsenal vs. Real Madrid
- Date: Tuesday, April 8
- Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Location: Emirates Stadium, London
- Live stream: Paramount+
- Odds: Arsenal +125; Draw +220; Real Madrid +230
Adrian Whitmore