Arsenal XI vs Atletico Madrid – Predicted lineup and team news | OneFootball

Arsenal seek to reach their first Champions League final since 2006 during their trip to Madrid.

Mikel Arteta’s side have reached consecutive semi-finals for the first time in their history. They are currently unbeaten in 12 European matches, winning 10 and drawing 2. That said, their scoring has slowed down significantly during the recent knockout rounds. The Gunners’ last four knockout games have produced an average of just 1.25 goals. Arteta wants his side to earn their place in the showpiece event.

Defensive solidity has been the foundation of Arsenal’s success in the Champions League recently. They have conceded a mere five goals in twelve matches so far this season. In the twenty-two games that Raya, Saliba, and Gabriel started together, they kept thirteen clean sheets. They concede only 0.5 goals per game when that trio anchors the defensive unit. This immovable object now faces the high-scoring force of Simeone’s Atletico.

The Gunners won the league phase meeting comfortably with a 4–0 victory last October. Bukayo Saka’s presence is crucial to that attacking output in the final third. Arsenal average 2.6 goals when the winger starts in the Champions League this term. Viktor Gyökeres will look to find his scoring touch after four games without a goal. Success in Madrid would leave Arsenal one game away from equalled their record unbeaten run.

Arsenal team news

Mikel Arteta received a major boost with the return of key attacking player Bukayo Saka this week. The England international is in line for his first start in over a month. He looked sharp during a brief cameo against Newcastle after recovering from an Achilles injury. Eberechi Eze also took part in open training on Tuesday after a recent knock. Arteta may decide to be cautious and name him among the substitutes tonight.

Kai Havertz will miss the first leg due to a muscular injury sustained last weekend. In his absence, Viktor Gyökeres is set to lead the line for the Gunners. Mikel Merino also remains unavailable for selection as he recovers from foot surgery. Jurrien Timber did not train on Tuesday and will miss the trip to Spain. These injuries force some changes to the side that beat Newcastle.

Gabriel Martinelli is pushing to start on the left wing to offer pace on the counter. He has scored six goals in the Champions League so far this season. Riccardo Calafiori is available but may be rested for a more defensive full-back combination. Piero Hincapie and Cristhian Mosquera are contenders to start in the wider defensive roles. Declan Rice will anchor the midfield alongside Martin Ødegaard and Martin Zubimendi.

Arsenal predicted lineup

Arsenal Predicted XI (4-3-3): Raya; White, Gabriel, Saliba, Hincapié; Rice, Ødegaard, Zubimendi; Saka, Gyökeres, Martinelli

When will the match kick off?

Arsenal face Atletico Madrid at 20:00 BST on Wednesday, 29 April 2026.

How to watch Atletico Madrid vs Arsenal?

Broadcasting of the semi-final is live on TNT Sports 1 in the United Kingdom.

Read more- Fantasy Premier League: Double gameweek confirmed as Man City vs Palace moved

See Also- The best Champions League semi-finals of all time

Follow the Football Faithful on Social Media:

Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok