With a commanding 3-0 advantage from the first leg at the Emirates courtesy of two magical free-kicks from Declan Rice, the Gunners are in a strong position—but they know better than to underestimate the European pedigree of Los Blancos.
However, amid the build-up, concerns have emerged over the fitness of key midfielder Thomas Partey, who went off during Arsenal’s recent 1-1 draw with Brentford.
Partey had put in a solid performance, scoring the team’s only goal with a composed finish after a quick counter-attack initiated by David Raya and carried forward by Declan Rice.
His substitution shortly after finding the net raised alarm bells, especially with such a crucial fixture just days away.
According to Arsenal expert Charles Watts, that while there is not too much concern about whether the injury will affect him playing vs Madrid, his absence will be a ‘major blow’ for the Gunners.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Watts said:
“From my understanding, and it’s very, very early days, initially is that it’s precaution and there isn’t too much concern that it’s going to affect him playing against Real Madrid in midweek.
“Thomas Partey would definitely start against Real Madrid if he was fit, so if he was out it would be a major, major blow to Arsenal – the way he was playing in the first-leg.
“But yes, my understanding and very initial prognosis of why Thomas Partey went off is that he felt something a little bit worrying and they didn’t want to take any chances.”
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