Arsenal March to UCL Semis Behind This Star’s Cool, Calm and Composed Perfomance

 By Danong

Jakub Kiwior was thrown into the spotlight against one of Europe's most elite sides, and he rose to the occasion proving he belongs on the biggest stage.  

Before Wednesday's clash against Real Madrid the Polish defender was already earning praise for his record of nine games unbeaten with five clean sheets alongside William Saliba in Arsenal's defense. After that 2-1 win, that tally grew to ten games unbeaten in another impressive display.  

Many felt Gabriel Magalhães' injury ahead of the UEFA Champions League quarter finals ties with Real Madrid would spell disaster for Arsenal. The consensus was that Real Madrid's attack would run riot against Arsenal's backline without the Brazilian's presence.  

Kiwior was written off, with little expectation of him making an impact in such a high-pressure battle. 

Yet across over 180 minutes at the Emirates Stadium and Santiago Bernabéu, he conceded just a single goal—and that came from a Saliba error. The former Spezia man looked right at home at the heart of Arsenal’s defence.  

If you’d been told two weeks ago that Kiwior would be Arsenal’s standout defender across two legs against Real Madrid, you might not have believed it. But the statistics speak for themselves.  

In the first leg at the Emirates Stadium during Arsenal’s emphatic 3-0 win, Kiwior delivered:  

- 1 interception
- 1 tackle
- 57/62 passes completed
- 1/2 ground duels won

In the second leg at Santiago Bernabéu, he stepped up again:  

- 5 clearances
- 2 blocked shots
- 2/2 aerial duels won
- 20/25 accurate passes

Despite rumours swirling about a potential summer departure—rumours that were also there in the winter—selling Kiwior now would be an error in judgment for Arsenal. With Italian clubs reportedly circling with low-ball offers, the Gunners would be wise to retain him.

Coming off the bench after being sidelined for much of the season, his performances at the highest level have showcased his mental and physical resilience—qualities that are harder to replicate than people often think.  

Mikel Arteta must manage Kiwior's workload next season, easing the pressure off Gabriel while ensuring he continues to prove his worth.  

Beyond Kiwior’s brilliance, Arsenal as a team delivered a commanding defensive display. Real Madrid, desperate for goals, registered only their first shot on target in the 56th minute of the second leg. Across the game, they managed just three shots on target, underscoring Arsenal’s defensive stability.  

Interestingly, despite prioritising defence, Arsenal still recorded six shots on target—double that of their opponents. A testament not only to their resilience but also to their balance.

Go For a Win or Hold Firm? Arsenal's Lineup to Secure a Semi-Final Spot at Santiago Bernabéu

 By Danong

Arsenal head to Madrid holding a commanding 3-0 lead over Real Madrid as the two sides renew their rivalry in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash.

The task for Arsenal is clear—they must avoid losing by three or more goals on Wednesday night. This raises the question: do they approach the match at Santiago Bernabéu with a defensive mindset, just avoiding losing, or do they aim for another emphatic victory?

It seems unlikely that Mikel Arteta would risk the fine record his team has established in the Champions League this season. Across 11 UCL games, Arsenal boast an impressive record of eight wins, two draws, and just one loss.

Arteta’s approach on Wednesday night will likely see his Arsenal side playing their normal game of dominating the ball aiming to secure another win but going into a defensive shape when the circumstances dictate so.

Which team will be best equipped to cope with Real Madrid’s attacking threats?

Before our predicted lineup, it’s worth noting that Thomas Partey, who suffered a knock against Brentford, and Ben White, who failed a fitness test ahead of the same match, returned to training and are available for selection. 

Given the circumstances, Arsenal’s strongest line-up for the second leg could look like this:

Raya
Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly
Partey, Rice, Ødegaard
Saka, Merino, Martinelli

While the team is strong across the board, two players stand out—Mikel Merino and Jakub Kiwior.

Due to injuries, Merino has been filling in as a striker and excelling in the role, with six goals in 11 games. He found the net against Real Madrid in the first leg and will be looking to make his mark again on Wednesday night.

For Kiwior, this is another opportunity to prove he belongs at Arsenal. His performance in the first leg was exceptional, and he will need to rise to the occasion once more.

Kiwior’s presence also allows Saliba to come to the fore and enjoy more freedom on the ball. Saliba and Kiwior have been partnered for nine games, with Arsenal unbeaten and keeping five clean sheets!

Strong performances from both Kiwior and Merino could propel Arsenal to a memorable night at Santiago Bernabéu, securing their first Champions League semi-final spot since 2009.

Draw Outshines This Arsenal Man's very Impressive Performance

 By Danong

The plan was to build on Arsenal’s thrilling 3-0 victory over Real Madrid. A Premier League London derby at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday evening offered a chance to maintain that momentum. Mikel Arteta’s side, however, faced a stern test against a resolute Brentford outfit.

Arsenal fielded a strong starting eleven, though Arteta made notable changes. Key players Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Jurrien Timber, and striker Mikel Merino were on the bench. Still the rotated team aimed to secure three points.  

Despite Arsenal’s intentions, Brentford proved difficult to break down. Thomas Partey opened the scoring in the sixty-first minute with a well-taken goal. The lead, however, was short-lived.  

Yoane Wissa equalised for Brentford, ensuring the spoils were shared. The one-all draw left Arsenal frustrated, unable to capitalise on their earlier dominance.  

Yet, amidst the disappointment, one player stood out. William Saliba delivered an exceptional performance at the heart of Arsenal’s defence. The Frenchman showcased his quality throughout the match.  

He recorded the most touches, with eighty in total. He completed sixty-eight of seventy-two passes, demonstrating his composure on the ball. His twelve final-third entries highlighted his ability to drive Arsenal forward.  

He also won nine possessions, the highest on the pitch. He equalled the most duels won, securing five, and completed three clearances. His two successful take-ons underlined his confidence.  

Most impressively, he created three chances—a first for him in a Premier League match. His progressive dribbling from central areas was key as Arsenal sought to unlock Brentford’s low-block defence.  

Brentford’s compact shape frustrated Arsenal’s attackers. Saliba’s ability to carry the ball into dangerous areas offered a different dimension and his composure helped Arsenal play through tight spaces.  

The Frenchman doesn't rely on others to shine. Unlike previous matches where Gabriel Magalhaes' presence aided him, Saliba was a force in his own right. His all-round game was a highlight.

Some had suggested resting him to keep him fresh for the match against Real Madrid on Wednesday. Arteta’s decision to start him, however, paid dividends.

He was given a 7.3 match rating by Sofascore (could have been better if he kept that cleansheet).

Arsenal’s draw may not have been the desired result, but Saliba’s performance offered plenty of positives. For fans, it was a reminder of the 24-year-old’s growing stature as one of Europe’s finest defenders.

Arteta’s Tactical Balancing Act: Dominating Brentford While Preparing for Real Madrid Showdown

 By Danong

Arsenal’s commanding 3-goal victory over Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg has fans dreaming of European glory. However, with the weekend upon us, attention now turns to the Premier League.

Mikel Arteta’s side face a London derby against Brentford at the Emirates Stadium. Trailing Liverpool by eleven points in the title race, Arsenal’s chances of lifting the Premier League trophy appear slim. Still, the team remains determined to keep pushing forward.

Fresh off their midweek triumph in Europe, Arsenal are unbeaten in their last eight matches, securing four wins and four draws. Their record in London derbies is equally impressive, with just one loss in their previous fifteen encounters.

Confidence is high among the Arsenal squad heading into Saturday’s match. A victory would further solidify their momentum as they prepare for the crucial second leg against Real Madrid next week.

Brentford, on their part, are struggling to find form. With only one win in their last five matches—alongside two draws and two losses—Thomas Frank’s side face an uphill battle. They have yet to defeat any of the Premier League’s top three teams this season.

Thomas Frank’s record against Arsenal is particularly concerning for Brentford fans. In seven games, the Brentford manager has not secured a victory over Arsenal, marking his longest winless streak against any English opponent.

Arsenal’s three-goal lead from the first leg provides a strong advantage heading into the return fixture in Madrid. However, with ninety minutes still to play, Arteta knows his team must stay sharp to secure a semi-final spot.

The question for the Arsenal technical bench is whether to field a full-strength side against Brentford or rotate key players. Resting certain stars could ensure they are fresh for the Champions League challenge ahead.

Jurrien Timber and Thomas Partey, both critical to Arsenal’s plans, could benefit from a rest. Neither player should be risked against Brentford, preserving their fitness for the Santiago Bernabeu.

Gabriel Martinelli might also be given a break. A rested Martinelli, alongside Timber and Partey, could pose a significant threat to Real Madrid in the second leg.

Bukayo Saka, however, may feature as he continues to build match fitness.

Here’s Arsenal’s predicted starting line-up against Brentford:

David Raya
White, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly
Odegaard, Jorginho, Rice
Saka, Merino, Trossard.

On the other hand Arteta may decide to make a lot more changes so as to rest key stars.

Raya
White Saliba Kiwior Tierney
Odegaard Jorghino Zinchenko
Nawneri Trossard Sterling

In this way Timber, Lewis-Skelly, Partey, Rice, Saka, Merino and Martinelli are all rested. 

Rice leads the charge but this player was up there close to him

 By Danong

As anticipation grew for Arsenal's clash with Real Madrid, the mood was electric. The Emirates Stadium was set for a momentous night and the Gunners did not disappoint. 

In an extraordinary performance, Arsenal stunned the visitors with a resounding 3-0 victory. Two sensational free-kicks from Declan Rice and a superb strike from Mikel Merino left Real Madrid reeling, unable to comprehend what had hit them. 

While Rice understandably stole the headlines with his brilliance, another Gunner deserving equal praise was the 18-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly. 

He didn't score, but his influence was crucial in executing Mikel Arteta’s tactical masterclass.

Lewis-Skelly, unfazed by the occasion, embodied Arsenal's modern approach. Operating as an inverted full-back, he tucked into midfield alongside Thomas Partey, forming a formidable pivot.

This tactical shift opened up opportunities for Martin Ødegaard and Rice, who were given the freedom to exploit space and wreak havoc on the opposition.

Lewis-Skelly’s tactical intelligence was pivotal. His carries and incisive passes through the middle constantly pushed Arsenal forward. 

Real Madrid's Eduardo Camavinga, for instance, was left puzzled, should he track Ødegaard who enjoyed the liberty to drift into dangerous areas or hold his position in midfield.  

In addition to his offensive contributions, Lewis-Skelly neutralised Rodrygo’s attacking threat down Real Madrid's right hand side. Despite frequently inverting into midfield the young full-back ensured there were no gaps for Madrid to exploit on the left hand side.

This fearless display highlighted maturity beyond his years. Making his senior debut just last September, the youngster’s performance on Wednesday night truly stood out. 

And the stats from the match further underscore his impact:

- 100% tackles won
- 100% dribbles completed 
- 57 passes attempted, 54 completed   (95% pass accuracy)
- 4 duels won
- 2 key passes (most in the match) 
- 1 assist

From open play, he was arguably Arsenal’s best player on the pitch.

As Arsenal fans revel in this monumental victory, the performances of players like Myles Lewis-Skelly signal a bright future for the Gunners.

Confident and fearless, the young full-back proved that he belongs on the biggest stage, standing tall against one of Europe’s footballing giants.

Has Kiwior played himself in the starting eleven against Real Madrid?

 By Danong

Tonight, Arsenal and Real Madrid meet at the Emirates Stadium for the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final tie. 

While this fixture is undoubtedly challenging, Arsenal must find a way to secure victory or at keast keep the tie level for the return leg. As things stand, their chances of European glory are far brighter than their prospects in the league. 

The Gunners will need to deliver their absolute best performance, and for most Gooners, the ideal line-up without Gabriel Magalhães seemed evident provided Jurrien Timber and Ben White were fit.  

Prior to Jakub Kiwior’s standout performance on Saturday, many fans had already settled on this line-up for the highly-anticipated clash with Real Madrid:

Raya
Timber, Saliba, White, Lewis-Skelly  
Rice, Partey, Ødegaard
Saka, Merino, Martinelli

Some have shown a preference for Trossard to start instead of Merino having scored against Everton last Saturday. But Arteta will likely keep Merino in the line-up.

Understandably however, Arsenal’s backline is the focus of every discussion. When asked about replacing Gabriel during Monday’s media briefing, Mikel Arteta remained tight-lipped, simply stating: “Yes, we’ve decided.”

A backline consisting of Timber, Saliba, White and Lewis-Skelly might hold up well against Real Madrid. But White has only recently came back from a long absence due to surgery and his appearances may need to be managed.

On the other hand Kiwior was rock-solid alongside William Saliba last weekend. His incisive forward passes behind the Everton defense were particularly noteworthy. With stats like these:

- Passing Accuracy: 58/62 (92%)  
- Long Balls: 4  
- Clearances: 3  

Kiwior was arguably deserving of a Man of the Match accolade. 

In my opinion, Kiwior should start ahead of White at center-back. Even if the chance is taken and White plays as the right-sided centre back, it forces Saliba—our best defender—to play out of position.

On top of that, Arsenal are already fielding a player out of position in attack (likely Mikel Merino). Let’s not disrupt the balance further. 

Sure, not everyone fancies Kiwior against Mbappé, but this is a team game. If the rest of the squad steps up, they can cover any vulnerabilities. 

No one is giving us a chance (except the Opta computer) and we are at our best when our backs are up against the wall.

The Emirates awaits an electrifying encounter and make no mistake the Gunners will rise to the occasion.

Preserve for Real Madrid or Go Full Throttle Against Everton?

 By Danong

Saturday's Premier League early kick-off sees Arsenal take on Everton at Goodison Park in what promises to be a fascinating encounter.  

Since their unexpected 1-0 loss to West Ham, the Gunners have gone unbeaten in four games (two wins and two draws), finding resurgence in the PL Run In.

Everton, meanwhile, come into this fixture off the back of a 1-0 Merseyside derby defeat to Liverpool. However, prior to that loss, they managed a solid six-game unbeaten streak (one win and five draws). They have been in some sort of resurgence under David Moyes.

Head-to-Head:

Arsenal have enjoyed a positive run against Everton lately, going unbeaten in their last four meetings (three wins and a draw).

Team News

- Gabriel Magalhães has been ruled out for the remainder of the season with a hamstring injury.  
- Mikel Arteta has hinted that Bukayo Saka may see more minutes on the pitch, as the young winger continues to seek match fitness.  
- Ben White and Jurrien Timber may be available for selection, according to the Arsenal boss

For Everton, both Iliman Ndiaye and Dwight McNeil are back in contention for starting spots after returning from injury.  

Should Arsenal go all out against Everton or conserve their energy for the crucial Champions League tie against Real Madrid?  

With Liverpool facing tricky fixtures (Chelsea, Brighton and Arsenal) that could impact their title race, a win on Saturday is non-negotiable for the Gunners.

- Jurrien Timber should remain fresh for the Real Madrid clash but could make a substitute appearance against Everton.

- Thomas Partey’s fitness is critical, and he must be saved for the Real Madrid fixture.

- Mikel Merino’s resurgence as Arsenal’s stand-in number nine continues to be a hopeful sign.  

Predicted Arsenal Line-up vs Everton

Raya
White, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly  
Jorginho, Rice, Ødegaard  
Nwaneri, Merino, Martinelli  

This is how Arteta can be bold and creative in his team selection to cover for Gabriel's absence

 By Danong and 1970s Gooner

Sixteen minutes into Arsenal's match against Fulham, Gabriel Magalhães suffered an injury that forced him off the pitch. Limping straight down the tunnel, early signs suggested a potential hamstring injury.

And it has now been confirmed that he is out for the season!

Without Gabriel, a cornerstone of Arsenal's defence, Mikel Arteta will need to find a way to maintain the team’s defensive solidity—a key factor in their competitiveness this season.

Is Kiwior up for it?

Jakub Kiwior replaced Gabriel during the Fulham game and while it was a rare chance for the Polish defender to impress, he struggled to make a convincing case.

His performance was rusty and he bore some responsibility for Fulham’s consolation goal.

Misjudging his positioning, when the ball was played forward behind Lewis Skelly, Kiwior backtracked instead of advancing to engage. This allowed Ryan Sessegnon to gallop into the area and had the time and space to pick out Rodrigo Muniz, who finished with ease.

In fact it's completely the same way that Liverpool's equalising goal at the Emirates in the 2-2 encounter was scored by Salah. Go back and see it....

He hasn't learned from his numerous past mistakes and he will never learn. This has left many Arsenal fans worried about how the defence (with him) would hold up against Real Madrid’s potent attack.

It is therefore imperative that Arteta finds a way of keeping Kiwior on the bench.

But we have a feeling that Arteta will play Kiwior instead judging by his comments in the presser after the Fulham game.

This will very probably prove to be a mistake.

1.The ideal scenario

We are hopeful that Ben White and Jurrien Timber will be fit and available. If so, a fit Timber would slot in at right-back, White alongside Saliba, allowing Partey to play in midfield. This is the ideal scenario really.

Raya
Timber, Saliba, White, Lewis Skelly  
Rice, Partey, Ødegaard  
Saka, Merino, Martinelli  


2. Only One of Timber and White declared fit

In this scenario whoever of the two is fit will have to play in central defence. The knock on effect will have to be that Partey will have to play at right back.

And Jorghino may slot in central midfield.

Raya 
Partey White/Timber Saliba Lewis-Skelly 
Odegaard Jorghino Rice 
Saka Merino Martinelli 

Alternatively Merino can play left midfield instead, with Rice covering the holding number 6 role. Trossard to play a false number 9 role.

Raya 
Partey White/Timber Saliba Lewis-Skelly 
Odegaard Rice Merino
Saka Trossard Martinelli

3. Go with a back three. The worst case scenario?

If Timber and White both remain sidelined, Arsenal will end up having to play Kiwior. 

Arteta may provide cover for him though by going for a back three of Saliba, Kiwior and Tierney shifting to a bold 3-4-3 formation. Partey and Lewis Skelly will be the wing backs.

Raya
Saliba, Kiwior, Tierney  
Partey, Ødegaard, Rice, Lewis Skelly  
Saka, Merino, Martinelli  

Arsenal fans may be praying that this scenario doesn't need to be adopted. But it sounds good to us if need be...

That said, hopes are also high for Arsenal’s attacking trio—the goal scoring Mikel Merino, the resurgent Gabriel Martinelli and the effervescent Bukayo Saka—to rise to the occasion and beat Real Madrid against all the odds.

Saka Returns, Arsenal Are Ready—Is This the Line-Up to Finally Put Fulham in Their Place?

 By Danong and 1970s Gooner

Arsenal return to action tonight in a London derby, as the Gunners host city rivals Fulham.

Fulham have recently tried to establish themselves as Arsenal’s bogey team, denying them all three points in the last three meetings:

- Fulham 1-1 Arsenal (a, 2024–25)  
- Fulham 2-1 Arsenal (a, 2023–24)  
- Arsenal 2-2 Fulham (h, 2023–24)  

With the North Londoners missing out on the title race last season by just two points, it’s fair to say that failing to beat the Cottagers played a role in their eventual disappointment.

Earlier this season, Arsenal were unable to impose themselves on Fulham, the match ending in a 1-1 draw. Tonight, however, the boys in red and white have a fresh chance over 90 minutes to rectify that and claim the win.

One major positive for Arsenal heading into this match is the return of Bukayo Saka. The Gunners’ number seven has been sidelined since December with a hamstring injury. 

Speaking about Saka, Mikel Arteta revealed: "He's ready to go," a clear indication that the star boy is set to play an important role in this game as he builds match fitness ahead of Arsenal’s Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid.

Jurrien Timber, who was ill during the international break, is also available for selection. Unfortunately, Ricardo Calafiori, who sustained another injury while on duty with Italy, remains out, though his absence isn’t expected to be lengthy.

With the players available, Arteta has decisions to make. How strong will he go against Fulham? A possible lineup could include:

- Raya
- Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly
- Partey, Rice, Ødegaard
- Saka, Trossard, Martinelli

Alternatively Arteta may feel that Saka should be eased in slowly and also that Timber may need to sit on the bench and let a fit again White play at right back. He can also rest Trossard who has been below par recently and start Nawneri.

Raya
White, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly
Odegaard, Partey, Rice
Nawneri, Merino, Martinelli

A win over Fulham tonight would maintain the faint hopes in the Premier League title race and put pressure on Liverpool. 

It would also help build momentum, laying the foundation for Arsenal’s ambition to end the season in style in both the Premier League and Champions League. 

5 Goal Contributions in 6 Games: Arsenal Star Proves He Is Worth the Price

 By Danong

What an impact Declan Rice has had on his club and country this March. In six games, the Englishman has directly contributed to five goals.

He had his fifth goal involvement on Monday night as England faced Latvia in a USA 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

Last Friday, during England's 2-0 victory over Albania, Rice set up Harry Kane's goal that sealed the win. Despite his critics refusing to acknowledge the Arsenal man's playmaking ability, he proved them wrong again on Monday night.

Close to the 70th minute, the £105 million Gunner darted into the box, drilled a low cross across the face of the goal, and Kane tapped it in at the back post.

That assist capped off a complete performance from the ex-Hammer, as his stats reflect:

- Minutes: 79  
- Touches: 65  
- Passes: 64 (98.5% accuracy)  
- Key passes: 3  
- Assist: 1  
- Accurate long balls: 1/1  
- Accurate crosses: 3/7  
- Interceptions: 2 (most in the game)  

Focusing on that assist, Rice's run for Kane's goal showed how far ahead he is of others. Few holding midfielders make runs like that nowadays.

But without Rice's boldness, intelligence, and determination, these goal contributions would not have materialised.

- vs. PSV (assist)  
- vs. Man Utd (goal)  
- vs. PSV (goal)  
- vs. Albania (assist)  
- vs. Latvia (assist)  

Watching Rice over the March international break, it's hard to understand the disrespect he receives. He has even added goal contributions to his game—he's everything you could want in a midfielder.

Now Arsenal is facing a pivotal stage in their season. Catching league leaders Liverpool, 12 points ahead, looks unlikely (although you never know). However, they can target Champions League glory with Rice leading from the front.

Seeing Rice shine, no Gooner can help but say: Bring on Real Madrid!