Carlo Ancelotti and Mikel Arteta (Photo: Angel Martinez, Ryan Pierce/Getty Images)
We don’t know the extent of Gabriel, lumber and white injuries yet, but I don’t think they are all suitable for playing against Madrid.
In Gabriel’s case, it’s a hamstring issue and given that it’s a big blow, I feel it’s impossible to think he can function very quickly.
However, I have to say that the potential issues with wood are even more worrying. If he and White both miss out, that would mean Thomas Party on the right back with Vinicius junior, which would be a big problem for Arsenal.
The timing is very disappointing.
It would have been great to see Gabriel and William Saliba against Madrid’s attack. It was a challenge they should have enjoyed, so it’s a shame that they’ve now been taken away from seeing it.
I don’t know what Arteta will do, but I think it all depends on what happens with wood and white. But the most likely option is that Jakub Kiwior will come in and partner Saliba will come.
It’s been a tough season for Poland International so far, but his opportunities are limited. But this is a chance to make yourself a hero.
Real Madrid has weak links that Arsenal can exploit
I think anyone at Arsenal would think that the second leg of Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey Ray Ray Semi-Final had an interest in seeing its connection with Real Sociedad on Tuesday night.
Yes, as always, they found a way to win the tie, but the fact that they admitted four goals at home shows that there are weaknesses that Arsenal can exploit.
I see that team and think Arsenal can fly down the flank. Gabriel Martinelli was excellent against Fulham. If he can attack with such energy and intentions against Madrid, he will cause a major problem with the right side, which he recently tends to use that right back.
It’s still not known if Bukayosaka fits well enough to start the first leg, but if he is, he can also cause problems for them. Real had Eduardo Camabinga on the left back against Sociedaddo. I don’t think he’ll play there against Arsenal, but if he does, you can bet that Saka will try to target him.
So Arsenal has a chance. Reality is clearly a favorite, especially with the issues Arsenal has on his back.