Rival watch: Arsenal hit with triple injury concern in build-up to Real Madrid test

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Rival watch: Arsenal hit with triple injury concern in build-up to Real Madrid test

Real Madrid have been handed a timely boost ahead of their UEFA Champions League second leg against Arsenal, as the English side face mounting injury concerns.

Mikel Arteta’s squad is struggling with fitness issues, which could hand Madrid a slight edge going into the decisive clash at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Arsenal’s draw against Brentford at the weekend not only cost them points in the Premier League but also left them sweating over the fitness of three key players.

White, Jorginho and Partey all doubts​

Before Saturday’s game even began, Ben White was pulled from the matchday squad due to a training setback. Arteta revealed,

“Ben White couldn’t be in the squad because he felt something again post-training yesterday,” adding uncertainty over his return: “We don’t know. He could not be in condition to be in the squad today and be selected.”

Things went from bad to worse during the match. Jorginho had to be taken off early after struggling with his breathing.

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Jorginho could not finish the game. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

“He said he could not breathe properly, so it might be to do with one of the ribs,” Arteta said. “It is strange because Jorgi normally carries on, so that means it is something significant.”

Thomas Partey, who has just returned from injury, also had to leave the pitch early.

“We didn’t expect the issue with Thomas. He felt something and we didn’t want to take any risks,” said the Arsenal boss. The full extent of the problem is still unknown.

While Arsenal scramble for solutions, Real Madrid are preparing with focus and confidence. Carlo Ancelotti’s men know exactly what is at stake and are no strangers to delivering when it matters most.

With the second leg being played at the Bernabeu, Madrid will not only have the crowd behind them but may also benefit from Arsenal’s weakened squad.

As Arsenal deal with uncertainty, Madrid’s experience and winning mentality will be tested as they look to take control of the tie.

Source: Mirror

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