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This is how Mikel Arteta can nullify the threat possessed by Real Madrid's potent attackers, such as Kylian Mbappe, without influential defender Gabriel.
Arsenal’s preparations for arguably their biggest Champions League double-header since 2009 have been rocked by a defensive injury crisis.
Although they beat Fulham 2-1 in their last home game, it came at a heavy cost as Gabriel Magalhaes - who is one half of Arsenal’s formidable center back pairing - was ruled out for the season after suffering an unfortunate injury.
With question marks about the fitness of Jurrien Timber, Ben White and Ricardo Calafiori - Although the former two played against Everton on Saturday - , Mikel Arteta faces a massive selection dilemma ahead of the quarter-final clash with Real Madrid.
Jakub Kiwior (more on him later) has filled in in Gabriel’s absence, but Arteta will want to find an amicable solution that can help him nullify the threat of Madrid inspired by the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior.
Despite the setbacks, all hope is not lost. Here’s a breakdown of how Arsenal can still pull off a famous victory against the reigning champions:
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1. Consider shifting William Saliba to left-sided center back.
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Even without Gabriel, Arsenal still have one of Europe’s most composed defenders in William Saliba.
The Frenchman will be key in organising what is likely to be a reshuffled backline. Whether he partners a fit-again Ben White, a returning Calafiori, or is paired with Jakub Kiwior, Saliba’s presence and ability to read the game will provide much-needed stability.
Being shifted to left sided center back will work if Arteta chooses to deploy Ben White centrally, and it is an option that could still work.
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On top of that, his composure and elite positioning will come in handy big-time to contain the threat of Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, and Mbappé. And speaking of White:
2. Use Ben White centrally
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White’s versatility may prove crucial. Against Everton, he returned and played as a right back, but Arteta could move him into central defence alongside Saliba—a role he’s comfortable in and excelled at during his first season at the Emirates.
This allows for a more experienced and Premier League-tested partnership to go up against Madrid’s world-class attack.
Timber, if cleared to start, can take over at right-back, keeping the overall quality of the back four high.
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White also reminded fans of his qualities against Liverpool at the Emirates earlier this season, when he created Bukayo Saka’s opening goal during their 2-2 draw with a well executed long-ball over the top from central defence - another quality he can bring when Arsenal attacks.
3. Avoid naivety in transitional situations
Real Madrid thrive in chaotic moments, especially when their front line is allowed space to run into.
Arsenal must approach this game with tactical discipline, ensuring they don’t over-commit in midfield and leave gaps behind.
This is where Declan Rice and Thomas Partey will be key by protecting the backline, cutting off supply to Jude Bellingham, and slowing Madrid’s counters.
A compact structure in and out of possession will be vital in neutralising Madrid’s direct approach.
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4. Leverage home advantage
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Arsenal’s home form this season has been stellar, and they’ll need to summon every ounce of that energy in north London. An aggressive but controlled start could tilt the momentum in their favour, especially if they can crowd Real’s midfield and force errors from the back.
The Emirates crowd will also play a key role, turning the stadium into a fortress could disrupt Madrid’s rhythm and give Arsenal the emotional edge.
Without Gabriel, Arsenal may not want to get dragged into a back-and-forth shootout. Instead, controlling possession and dictating the tempo can reduce the number of defensive duels and isolate Madrid’s attackers for long stretches.
Martin Ødegaard, the returning Bukayo Saka, and one of Leandro Trossard or Mikel Merino when trusted as a center forward will need to be sharp in the final third, but smart, patient football could be Arsenal’s best defence.
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Final verdict
While Gabriel’s injury is a major blow, Arsenal still have enough quality and tactical flexibility to challenge Real Madrid.
Arteta’s decision for that central defence could be the difference between heartbreak and a historic result, as Arsenal will have an eye on winning the first European trophy in their history.
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