Arsenal predicted lineup vs Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League | OneFootball

Arsenal welcomes Real Madrid to the Emirates in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals on Thursday. They drew 1-1 at Everton in their last Premier League game at Goodison Park. However on a positive note, a few first-choice players were rested, and some of those who were injury concerns ahead of the match came through without any trouble.

The hosts will be uplifted by the expected return to the starting XI of Bukayo Saka. Fullback Jurrien Timber showed he is also back to fitness by making a substitute appearance on Saturday. However, the absence of certain players, especially Gabriel, will be a setback Mikel Arteta has to navigate.

Arsenal's predicted lineup in the UEFA Champions League vs Real Madrid (4-3-3)

Goalkeeper: David Raya

The Spaniard's movement for the penalty kick was again under much scrutiny among fans. Nevertheless, he remains Arsenal's first choice between the sticks.

Right-Back: Jurrien Timber

Ben White was the pick on Saturday, with Timber making an appearance off the bench. The Dutch international is one of their regulars, and he should return to the starting XI after the recent injury woes.

Center-Back: William Saliba

His experience and defensive capabilities will be put to the test against his compatriot Kylian Mbappé. Arsenal will need the Frenchman at his best to control and guide the backline.

Center-Back: Jakub Kiwior

The Pole has done well since coming into the team for the injured Gabriel. Even though Ben White can also play at center-back, Kiwior should retain his place in the defense.

Left-Back: Myles Lewis-Skelly

One of the young players who have made their mark in English football in recent times. He should be ready and raring to go against the challenges of Rodrygo and Real Madrid.

Central Midfield: Martin Ødegaard

The former Real Madrid player will be keen to show what he could have done at the club. The Arsenal captain is one of their most important players, and he will be fresh as he came on with less than 20 minutes to go in normal time against Everton.

Central Midfield: Thomas Partey

The Ghanaian international will have a big role in the middle of the park. He was not called upon from the bench on Saturday and will have had enough rest for Tuesday's challenge.

Central Midfield: Declan Rice

Rice might have played the full 90 minutes against Everton and had an off game considering his high standards. However, he is expected to start, and the stakes in the game should bring the best out of him.

Right Winger: Bukayo Saka

The winger has been thoroughly missed by Arsenal fans since he injured his hamstring four months ago. He made his grand return to the playing XI a week ago with a goal. He again came off the bench at Goodison Park. On Tuesday, he should make his long-awaited start for the Gunners.

Center-Forward: Mikel Merino

The Spaniard will have extra encouragement to do well against the club from his homeland. He has done well so far in his makeshift forward role, and he is anticipated to start there, even though he did well in his preferred midfield role last time.

Left Winger: Gabriel Martinelli

The Brazilian winger was brought on at the beginning of the second half against Everton. It might not have gone his way that day, but not playing the full match and having the first-choice players, including Saka, to whom he assisted a week ago, should give him more opportunity to help the team against the defending champions.