Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta, is facing a major defensive crisis ahead of their Champions League quarter-final showdown with Real Madrid, with four key defenders in doubt.
Gabriel’s early exit from the Premier League victory over Fulham due to a hamstring issue has deepened Arteta’s concerns.
Jurrien Timber also struggled with a knee injury, while Ben White and Riccardo Calafiori remain major doubts.
The mounting setbacks overshadowed Bukayo Saka’s triumphant return, as the winger marked his comeback with a goal just six minutes and 36 seconds after coming on as a substitute following a 100-day injury layoff.
With Real Madrid’s attacking firepower, led by Kylian Mbappe, looming large, Arteta acknowledged the growing challenges.
“Gabi felt something in his hamstring. We don’t know how big that is and with Jurrien as well. He was already struggling very early in the game. He managed to continue, at some point he couldn’t. So that’s the downside to it,” he said.
Despite the defensive setbacks, Arteta remains defiant, highlighting the resilience of his squad.
“The good thing is that it’s been like this the whole season. How we have managed to be where we are with all those injuries, Ben White hasn’t participated at all this season. It’s what it is.
“You can imagine with those four players in the defensive line in one week. So Calafiori, Ben White, Jurrien and Gabriel. We have still another four that are so bloody willing that they will do their job. We want it so much that we’re going to give it a real go and we are very excited for the next week.”
Saka’s return provided a silver lining, with the winger’s celebration highlighting his gratitude toward the medical team who guided his recovery.
Arteta praised Saka’s gesture, saying, “I think a beautiful moment to see how much our people love, respect and admire Bukayo. He’s not a surprise to any of us and I think the best example is his reaction. Immediately after scoring a goal, what does he do?
“He goes and says thank you for all the hard work that all the sports science guys, physios and everybody involved in the recovery have done for him to be able to be in the condition that he is. I think he lifted the stadium, the energy and great to have him back.”
While injuries cast a shadow over Arsenal’s preparations, Arteta’s unwavering belief in his squad ensures they will approach their European test with determination.
