Arteta Backs Saka to Shift Momentum in Arsenal’s Favour Against Real Madrid
Mikel Arteta believes Bukayo Saka could be the game-changer in Arsenal’s highly anticipated Champions League quarter-final showdown with Real Madrid on Tuesday – a match he described as a “beautiful” occasion.
Saka is in line to feature in the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, having recently returned from a three-month injury layoff. The 23-year-old made substitute appearances in Arsenal’s last two games, scoring on his comeback against Fulham and impressing in the draw with Everton.
Saka hasn’t started for the Gunners since their win at Crystal Palace on December 21, but Arteta is confident the England international – who underwent hamstring surgery – is now ready to make a significant impact.
“He’s in a much better place,” Arteta said. “We’ve been building him up carefully. He played 30 minutes against Fulham and 49 against Everton. That progression puts him in a stronger position now.”
With Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes fading – they trail leaders Liverpool by 11 points – the Champions League represents Arteta’s last opportunity to end a five-year wait for silverware. Arsenal, who have never won the tournament, were eliminated by Bayern Munich at the same stage last year. Their only final appearance ended in defeat to Barcelona in 2006.
Mindful of the magnitude of the clash with 15-time champions Real Madrid, Arteta rested key players against Everton to keep them fresh for the European test.
Calling the matchup “one of the most beautiful games you can play,” Arteta relishes the chance to take on Carlo Ancelotti’s experienced side. “You’re playing against the team that has dominated European football over the last two decades. It’s a special occasion and we’re looking forward to it.”
However, Arsenal face a defensive headache with Gabriel Magalhaes ruled out for the season due to a hamstring injury. Jakub Kiwior filled in alongside William Saliba against Everton, but with Real’s dynamic attacking duo of Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior looming, Arteta may opt for changes.
Ben White, who made his first Premier League start since November at Goodison Park, is a candidate to shift into central defence, while Jurrien Timber could slot in at right-back.
“We’ve got options,” Arteta explained. “Some players haven’t played much together, so the cohesion isn’t perfect. But it was good for Ben to get minutes. Now we’ll evaluate the best defensive setup for this game.”
Arteta also confirmed that Mikel Merino, who’s been filling in up front amid injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz, is fit despite sustaining a head cut during the Everton match.
Meanwhile, Leandro Trossard, who scored his first league goal since January at the weekend, is hopeful he’s done enough to earn a starting role on Tuesday.
“I’m very excited – it’s a massive game,” Trossard said. “We know the challenge we face. Real Madrid are the most successful club in Champions League history. We’ll need the fans behind us to create an electric atmosphere. Hopefully, we can take advantage of playing the first leg at home.”
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