Arsenal’s Absentees: Key Players Missing for Real Madrid Clash

As Arsenal prepare for one of their most important fixtures of the season — the UEFA Champions League quarter-final showdown against Real Madrid — they’ll be doing so without several key players. The Gunners are heading into this massive tie with a number of notable absentees due to injuries and suspension, a situation that Mikel Arteta will need to carefully navigate if his side is to overcome the Spanish giants.

1. Riccardo Calafiori – Knee Injury (Return: 21 April 2025)
The Italian defender has been a revelation since joining Arsenal, but he will be unavailable for the first leg against Madrid due to a knee injury. His expected return is not until after the second leg, leaving a significant hole in Arsenal’s defensive options. Calafiori’s aggression and technical ability will be missed, particularly against a Real Madrid attack that thrives on space and unpredictability.

EINDHOVEN, NETHERLANDS – MARCH 04: Riccardo Calafiori of Arsenal during the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first leg match between PSV Eindhoven and Arsenal FC at the Phillips Stadium on March 04, 2025 in Eindhoven, Netherlands. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

2. Gabriel Magalhães – Hamstring Injury (Return: 26 May 2025)
One of the most consistent performers in Arsenal’s backline, Gabriel’s absence is a massive blow. The Brazilian centre-back has been instrumental in Arsenal’s defensive solidity throughout the season. His hamstring injury rules him out until late May, meaning he will play no part in either leg of this Champions League quarter-final tie.

3. Takehiro Tomiyasu – Knee Injury (Return: 1 June 2025)
Tomiyasu’s versatility and defensive discipline have often made him a go-to option for Arteta, especially in high-stakes matches. His ability to play across the back four would have provided vital cover, but a knee injury keeps him sidelined until June.

4. Gabriel Jesus – Unknown Injury (Return: 30 June 2025)
Although he hasn’t been at his prolific best this season, Jesus offers valuable experience, technical quality, and pressing intensity in big matches. His mysterious long-term injury continues to be a concern for fans, and his absence leaves Arsenal slightly short of options in the forward line.

5. Kai Havertz – Hamstring Injury (Return: 30 June 2025)

LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 22: Kai Havertz celebrates scoring the 2nd Arsenal goal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD7 match between Arsenal FC and GNK Dinamo at on January 22, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Another long-term absentee, Havertz has suffered from inconsistency this season but has also delivered some crucial moments. His ability to play multiple attacking roles and contribute defensively made him a valuable asset in Arteta’s tactical setup. Unfortunately, his season is likely over due to a hamstring issue.

6. Raheem Sterling – Suspended (Return: 9 April 2025)
The English winger, on loan from Chelsea, will miss the first leg against Real Madrid due to suspension. Sterling has added pace and width to Arsenal’s attack in recent months, and his absence will be felt in a game where transition and speed on the flanks could prove decisive. He will, however, be available for the second leg at the Bernabéu.

Conclusion
With six key players unavailable, Mikel Arteta faces a major test of his tactical acumen and squad depth. Arsenal still boast plenty of quality in their ranks, but beating Real Madrid without these players will require a disciplined, united, and clinical performance — the kind that champions are made of.