[4-3-1-2]: William decision made, Partey in a strange position and Saka partners Merino upfront- Arsenal predicted lineup against Real Madrid as Mikel Arteta made unthinkable changes against the Los Blancos

The Gunners will take on Los Blancos in the first leg of the quarter-finals in the Champions League.

As the UEFA Champions League reaches its most intense stages, Arsenal and Real Madrid will lock horns in a match that captures the essence of European football drama. Both teams will have a chance to show their style, strengths, and tactics.

This contest promises to be a compelling display of tactical excellence and individual brilliance. Last time out, the Gunners missed their opportunity to go into the finals of the UCL. But this time, they will look to grab the trophy.

Los Blancos are the biggest challenge in front of them in the quarter-finals. The Gunners like to play possession-based football and surely will be a big challenge to the Spanish giants. Arsenal will most probably not win the league, and now they will fully focus on the Champions League. The home side will have to be at their best to get a good result in the first leg.

Los Blancos continue to reinforce their legacy as one of the most dominant clubs in world football. Carlo Ancelotti’s composed leadership has kept the Spanish giants on course for yet another deep Champions League run. The squad is filled with talent and will surely make things difficult for the home team.

Madrid’s ability to manage these high-pressure games makes them the best. Despite all challenges, they are able to get positive results. This will surely be a mouthwatering clash.

Players to Watch

Mikel Merino (Arsenal)

His main strength is his penetrative passing; whether breaking lines or creating with through balls, he is typically his team’s most positive passer. Merino is a midfielder who has mostly played as a number eight within a midfield three or four. He also has experience in a deeper pivot role, usually as a part of a double pivot.

Recently, in the absence of a striker, he was the man who took the responsibility of scoring goals. Mikel Arteta fully trusts him, and he always delivers on the pitch. He is comfortable in both short and long passes and can switch play easily. The Spaniard is able to exploit space like an elite midfielder. In 23 matches, he has scored six goals and provided one assist.

Since coming on as a striker against Leicester on 15 February, no player has a better shot conversion rate than Mikel Merino in the Premier League (36.4% – 10+ shots). pic.twitter.com/Y0dYnSwhy9

— WhoScored (@WhoScored) April 2, 2025

Aurelien Tchouameni (Real Madrid)

The Frenchman epitomizes the archetype of the modern midfielder, seamlessly blending physical dominance, technical prowess and tactical acumen. His role is mainly disrupting the opposition’s play, maintaining possession fluidity and acting as the vital conduit between defense and attack. Tchouameni’s defensive acumen is a testament to his profound game understanding.

His positional awareness is impeccable, consistently scanning the pitch to obstruct passing lanes and intercept through balls. This season, he has played 37 games for Real Madrid. In those outings, he saw seven yellow cards.

Aurélien Tchouaméni among all players on the pitch tonight:• Most touches (96)• Most accurate passes (86)• Most key passes (3)• Joint-most accurate long balls (3)• 100% duels won (2/2)• 0 times dribbled pastWHAT A PERFORMANCE. @SofascoreINT pic.twitter.com/FNFxR4BOKm

— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) March 4, 2025

Injury and Team News

Gabriel suffered a hamstring injury that has ruled him out for the remainder of the season. Riccardo Calafiori and Takehiro Tomiaysu are both out of action at present. The rest of the players are fit to play for the Premier League side.

Thibaut Courtois is suffering from a muscular issue and is doubtful for the match. Due to knee injuries, Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao remain on the sidelines. The rest of the players are fit to play for the LaLiga giants.

Predicted Lineups

Arsenal Predicted Lineup (4-3-3):
Raya (GK); Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Skelly; Rice, Jorginho, Merino, Saka, Trossard, Martinelli

Real Madrid Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Lunin (GK); Vazquez, Asencio, Rudiger, Garcia; Valverde, Tchouameni; Rodrygo, Bellingham, Vinicius; Mbappe