“I’m Beginning to Feel Arsenal Will Beat Us Because of Our Injury Crisis”: Mbappe Voices Concern Ahead of Crucial Second-Leg Clash After Three Real Madrid Stars Are Ruled Out
In what was supposed to be a routine La Liga outing against Alavés, Real Madrid walked away with far more than just three points—they walked away with a serious problem. Three key players suffered injuries that could sideline them for the crucial second leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie against Arsenal. And now, Real Madrid’s star forward, Kylian Mbappé, has voiced what many fans are secretly thinking.
“I’m beginning to feel Arsenal will beat us because of our injury yesterday,” Mbappé admitted in a post-match interview that sent waves through the football world. It was a rare moment of vulnerability from the French superstar, who is usually composed and confident ahead of big fixtures. But this time, the tone was different. It was concerned, cautious, and—for the first time—unsure.
Real Madrid, who had already been dealing with a tight schedule and intense pressure, were dealt a brutal blow during their clash with Alavés, with three first-team regulars limping off due to various injuries. Reports confirm that midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni, full-back Ferland Mendy, and forward Rodrygo will all be unavailable for the second leg at the Emirates.
This is no small setback.
Tchouaméni has been a cornerstone of Madrid’s midfield, controlling tempo, breaking up plays, and offering much-needed stability. Mendy, though often underrated, has provided solid defensive cover and is vital when defending against explosive wingers like Bukayo Saka. And Rodrygo? His pace, creativity, and understanding with Mbappé have been instrumental in unlocking defenses throughout this Champions League campaign.
Now, with the trio ruled out, Carlo Ancelotti’s options have suddenly become thin, and the squad looks far less imposing than it did just a week ago.
“The injuries have hit us hard, no doubt,” Mbappé continued. “It’s not just about missing players—it’s about missing rhythm, understanding, and depth. Against a team like Arsenal, who are young, fast, and aggressive, we need to be at full strength. And now, we won’t be.”
Real Madrid managed to escape the first leg at the Santiago Bernabéu with a narrow advantage, but the performance had already sparked concerns among fans. Arsenal looked hungry, composed, and dangerous on the counter. Now, with Real Madrid weakened further, the balance may well have tipped in the Gunners’ favor.
Inside the Madrid camp, there’s a mixture of anxiety and determination. Ancelotti has reportedly been working overtime on a new tactical setup to adjust for the missing players. Young talents like Arda Güler and Fran García might be thrust into the spotlight, while veterans such as Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos may have to play deeper and longer than expected.
But in the eyes of Mbappé, the real battle isn’t just tactical—it’s psychological.
“This is the Champions League. Anything can happen,” he said. “But we’re not naïve. We know what Arsenal are capable of, especially at home. Their fans, their energy—it’s going to be war.”
With the second leg fast approaching, one thing is clear: this quarter-final isn’t just about football anymore. It’s about resilience, adaptability, and who wants it more. And with Madrid wounded and Arsenal smelling blood, the stage is set for a showdown no one can predict.
But if even Kylian Mbappé is beginning to doubt, then perhaps Arsenal’s belief is already halfway to reality.