Real Madrid is set to face Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday, April 8, 2025.
No Ceballos, No Mendy: Real Madrid to Field Weakened XI Against Arsenal
However, the team will be without two key players: midfielder Dani Ceballos and left-back Ferland Mendy.​
Dani Ceballos sustained a hamstring injury during Real Madrid’s 1-0 Copa del Rey semifinal first-leg win over Real Sociedad on February 26.
The injury has sidelined him for several weeks, and he is expected to miss up to two months of action. Ceballos had become an integral part of Carlo Ancelotti’s midfield, stepping up significantly after the departure of Toni Kroos.
His absence is a considerable setback for the team, especially during this crucial phase of the season.​
Ferland Mendy, on the other hand, has been dealing with a muscle injury that has kept him out of recent matches. Despite efforts to expedite his recovery, Mendy has not regained full fitness in time for the clash against Arsenal.
In his absence, Fran Garcia is expected to fill the left-back position. Garcia faces a challenging task, likely coming up against Arsenal’s standout winger, Bukayo Saka.​
In more positive news for Real Madrid, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has returned to the squad after recovering from a knee injury that sidelined him for 22 days.
Courtois participated in training sessions leading up to the match and is set to start between the posts.
Additionally, Antonio Rudiger and Fede Valverde have overcome minor injuries and are available for selection, bolstering the team’s defensive and midfield options.​
Despite these injury concerns, Real Madrid remains focused on securing a positive result in London.
The team’s depth will be tested, but with experienced players returning and others stepping up, they aim to navigate these challenges effectively.
Fans will be eager to see how Ancelotti’s side adapts and performs in this pivotal European encounter.
