Arsenal’s star winger Bukayo Saka believes that his recent injury layoff could turn out to be a blessing in disguise as the Gunners prepare to face reigning champions Real Madrid in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal.
Saka, 23, has been a pivotal figure in Mikel Arteta’s squad this season. Despite missing out on England’s opening two World Cup qualifiers due to a serious hamstring injury, he made a triumphant return by scoring in Arsenal’s Premier League victory over Fulham last week.
“I’m feeling fresh and ready,” Saka said ahead of the highly anticipated matchup. “The time off allowed me to recover fully and recharge. We’re all focused on putting in a top performance against Real Madrid.”
With 10 goals and 14 assists in 26 appearances across all competitions this season, including four goals in the Champions League, Saka’s influence on the pitch is undeniable. His presence will be crucial if Arsenal hopes to upset the Spanish giants.
Manager Mikel Arteta emphasized the team’s confidence going into the match. “Be super convinced,” Arteta urged. “Tomorrow night, 11 players, 60,000 people, really super convinced that we are ready to win and to beat them. That’s the mindset that I want.”
This encounter marks the first time Arsenal and Real Madrid have met in the Champions League since 2006, when a solitary goal from Thierry Henry at the Bernabeu secured Arsenal’s advancement in the round of 16. The Gunners went on to reach the final that year, ultimately falling to Barcelona.
Both teams are eager to rebound from disappointing domestic results over the weekend. Arsenal were held to a 1-1 draw against Everton, while Real Madrid suffered a 2-1 defeat at home to Valencia, losing ground in the La Liga title race.
Real Madrid’s coach Carlo Ancelotti addressed rumors about his future at the club. “It may be that a lot of people have become tired,” Ancelotti said. “I don’t think the most important person, president Florentino Perez, is tired of me. That’s all that matters.”
The stage is set for an electrifying clash at the Emirates Stadium, with both teams aiming to take a significant step towards European glory.
