Eppe Franklyne –
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Bukayo Saka is set to feature in the Champions League quarterfinal against Real Madrid, following a successful return from a three-month injury absence.
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Mikel Arteta believes Saka’s involvement could tilt the balance in Arsenal’s favor, with the forward playing a key role in the team’s bid to eliminate the defending champions.
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Arteta faces a defensive selection dilemma after Gabriel Magalhães’ injury, with options including Ben White or Jakub Kiwior to partner William Saliba.
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The Champions League represents Arsenal’s best chance for silverware this season, as the Premier League title appears out of reach.
Mikel Arteta is optimistic that Bukayo Saka can play a decisive role in Arsenal’s Champions League quarterfinal clash against Real Madrid on Tuesday. After spending three months sidelined due to injury, Saka has made two substitute appearances, showing his readiness by scoring in his return against Fulham and impressing in Saturday’s draw at Everton. Though he hasn’t started since December 21, Arteta believes the 23-year-old forward is in a much stronger position ahead of the high-stakes tie at the Emirates.
“He’s in a much better place. Obviously, we have built that up,” Arteta said, expressing confidence in Saka’s ability to make a difference against the defending champions. The England international, who had surgery on a hamstring injury, is expected to be in a more favorable condition as he continues his recovery.
With Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes seemingly slipping away, the Champions League presents Arteta’s last chance to end a five-year trophy drought, and he has made changes to his team to keep them fresh for the European showdown. Arteta highlighted the significance of facing a Real Madrid side that has dominated the tournament in recent years. “One of the most beautiful games that you can play in football, in the highest European competition, against the team that has dominated that competition in the last 20, 25 years,” he said.
Arteta’s selection plans have been complicated by an injury to Gabriel Magalhães, ruling him out for the season. This leaves Arteta with a dilemma on who will partner William Saliba in central defense. Jakub Kiwior was given the role against Everton, but he may face a tougher challenge against Real Madrid’s attacking threats, including Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior. Arteta also has the option to move Ben White into central defense and bring in Jurrien Timber at right-back.
Arsenal will also have Spain’s Mikel Merino available, despite a head injury he sustained in the Everton match. Arteta confirmed that Merino is fit to play, offering the team depth in light of injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz.
As the Gunners prepare for their most critical fixture of the season, Arteta remains focused on the challenge ahead, hoping his tactical decisions, along with Saka’s return to form, can propel them past the European giants.
