Arsenal Official Starting XI to Face Real Madrid: Arteta Makes Bold Selections

Arsenal have officially named their starting XI to take on Real Madrid tonight at the Emirates Stadium in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals, and Mikel Arteta has opted for a mix of returning stars, youthful energy, and reliable leaders in a high-stakes battle under the lights.

Here’s the confirmed Arsenal lineup:
Raya; Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Partey, Rice, Ødegaard; Saka, Martinelli, Merino.

Arteta has stuck with a 4-3-3 formation, trusting the core group that has brought Arsenal this far in both the Premier League and Europe. The decision to start Jurrien Timber is especially significant, with the Dutchman making a major return in arguably Arsenal’s biggest game of the season.

Defensive Setup: Timber Returns, Lewis-Skelly Starts Again
David Raya retains his place in goal, as expected, and will be hoping for a quiet night thanks to a solid backline in front of him. Jurrien Timber starts at right-back for the first time since returning from injury and could play a key role in both defense and attack.
William Saliba and Jakub Kiwior form the centre-back pairing, while teenage sensation Myles Lewis-Skelly once again starts at left-back. His inclusion in such a massive game shows just how much faith Arteta has in the 17-year-old, who continues to rise to every occasion thrown his way.

Midfield: Partey, Rice and Ødegaard Form Experienced Trio
In midfield, Arsenal go with power, composure, and creativity. Thomas Partey is chosen to anchor the midfield, with Declan Rice alongside him to offer balance and defensive cover. Martin Ødegaard, the captain, will be the creative heartbeat, tasked with breaking lines and unlocking the Real Madrid defence.

Attack: Saka and Martinelli Backed by Merino
Bukayo Saka starts on the right wing, with Gabriel Martinelli on the left. Both players are electric on the ball and will look to exploit Madrid’s full-backs.
Mikel Merino, who has been impressive since arriving last summer, is deployed in a more advanced attacking role. With his intelligence, physical presence, and passing ability, Merino could be a wildcard option to unnerve the Madrid defence.

Substitutes Bench: Plenty of Options
The bench features Neto and Setford as goalkeeper options, while Tierney, White, and Zinchenko offer defensive reinforcements. Jorginho provides experience in midfield, alongside promising academy products like Gower and Nwaneri.
Leandro Trossard is available as an attacking option and could be vital off the bench, while Butler-Oyedeji rounds out the squad.

A Massive Night at the Emirates
With the tie delicately poised and Real Madrid bringing a strong side, Arsenal will need to be at their very best to take a first-leg advantage. Arteta’s selection shows intent — a mixture of trust in youth and reliance on battle-hardened players. With the Emirates expected to be rocking, the stage is set for another memorable European night in North London.