Arsenal have announced their starting lineup for the decisive second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu. Mikel Arteta’s side holds a commanding 3-0 lead from the first leg, with goals from Declan Rice (2) and Mikel Merino putting the Gunners in pole position to reach the semifinals.
The starting XI for Arsenal is: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Partey, Rice, Ødegaard; Saka, Martinelli, Merino.
Arsenal’s lineup shows a strong balance of youth and experience. David Raya retains his spot in goal, while Jurrien Timber and Myles Lewis-Skelly feature in defense alongside William Saliba and Jakub Kiwior. The midfield is anchored by Thomas Partey, Declan Rice, and captain Martin Ødegaard. In attack, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli support Mikel Merino, who was on the scoresheet in the first leg.
On the bench, Arteta has several attacking and defensive options, including Trossard, Tierney, White, and youngsters like Ethan Nwaneri and Amario Cozier-Duberry.
With one foot already in the semifinals, Arsenal will aim to finish the job in Madrid, while remaining cautious against a Real Madrid side known for their European comebacks.