Arsenal XI vs Real Madrid: Confirmed team news, predicted lineup, injury latest for Champions League | OneFootball

Bukayo Saka expects to make his first start of 2025

Comeback: Bukayo Saka

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Bukayo Saka has declared himself ready to start Arsenal’s Champions League quarter-final first leg against Real Madrid.

Saka came off the bench against Fulham and Everton, marking his return with a goal against the latter.

And asked if he’s ready to start against Real Madrid, Saka said: “Yeah, but there is only one way to find out!”

Arsenal have no fresh injury concerns from their draw at Everton on Saturday, with Mikel Merino fine after cutting his head.

Ben White was able to get through 60 minutes at Goodison Park, starting a game for the first time since November, and he could get the nod against Real Madrid.

Gabriel is missing the game due to a hamstring injury that will force him to be absent for the rest of the season.

It means Arteta could turn to White, if he decides not to play Jakub Kiwior in the heart of defence alongside William Saliba.

Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard and Thomas Partey should be Arsenal’s midfield trio. Odegaard and Partey were both named on the bench at Everton.

In attack, Mikel Merino may lead the line once more, although Leandro Trossard is an option after starting and scoring there against Everton at the weekend.

Arsenal predicted XI (4-3-3): Raya; Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Saka, Merino, Martinelli

Injured: Calafiori (knee), Gabriel (hamstring), Havertz (hamstring), Jesus (knee), Tomiyasu (knee)

Suspended: Sterling

Arsenal squad from: Neto, Raya, Setford; Kacurri, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly, Saliba, Tierney, Timber, Zinchenko; Jorginho, Merino, Nwaneri, Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Martinelli, Saka and Trossard

Time and date: 8pm BST on Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Venue: Emirates Stadium

Referee: Irfan Peljto

How to watch: Amazon Prime