GALLERY PICTURES Matchday -1 session Sobha Realty Training Centre Ancelotti with his hand on his chin, Arsenal’s crest, and behind him, Real Madrid players | Real Madrid ConfidencialFIRST TEAM

Absent Against Arsenal in the First and Second Leg, Ancelotti Pulls His Hair Out

Out Against Arsenal in the First and Second Leg, Ancelotti Pulls His Hair Out Over the Injury

Real Madrid is having a serious problem this season with injuries, just as it happened last season. It’s not only because of Militao and Carvajal, who are the long-term ones and have missed many months. It’s also because other players haven’t been available for several matches.

LONDON COLNEY, ENGLAND – APRIL 07: of Arsenal during a training session ahead of their UEFA Champions League 2024/25 quarter final first leg match at Sobha Realty Training Centre on April 07, 2025 in London Colney, England. 

LONDON COLNEY, ENGLAND – APRIL 07: of Arsenal during a training session ahead of their UEFA Champions League 2024/25 quarter final first leg match at Sobha Realty 

LONDON COLNEY, ENGLAND – APRIL 07: of Arsenal during a training session ahead of their UEFA Champions League 2024/25 quarter final first leg match at Sobha 

Looking ahead to facing Arsenal in the Champions League quarter-finals, they will have several absences. But one of the most concerning for Ancelotti at the moment is Ferland Mendy’s. The Frenchman is an essential piece for his plans due to the defensive solidity he brings to the team.

Mendy in a Match with Real Madrid | Real Madrid Confidencial

He won’t be in the first leg at the Emirates, as is the case with Ceballos, Lunin, or Tchouaméni, the latter being suspended. But it is expected that those three will be available for the return match. The same doesn’t apply to Mendy, who is currently doubtful for the Bernabéu clash.

Meanwhile, Ceballos has already been seen partially training with the group, Mendy continues working in the gym. He can’t get past his injury and is doubtful for the return match against Arsenal. He has just over a week ahead to be able to participate.

Ancelotti Trusts Mendy, but Doubts Have Begun This Season

If there is one player who has captivated Ancelotti, it is Mendy, and he has made it clear. Last season he said that when he’s well, defensively there’s no one better in his position. He trusts him blindly and despite the criticism, he was an undisputed starter in his plans

Mendy on the Ground Surrounded by Teammates After Suffering an Injury | Real Madrid Confidencial

But this season he has been at a lower level than usual, in addition to his physical problems. To the point that he has rotated with Fran García even in important commitments. The Spaniard was a starter in the league classic at the Bernabéu a few months ago.

Despite this, everything indicated that if he was recovered, he was going to be a starter in the tie against Arsenal. Otherwise, Ancelotti will have to choose between Fran García and Camavinga. And in the first leg, it seems the Frenchman will be a pivot due to Tchouaméni’s suspension.