Real Madrid lose first team star for Arsenal clash

Ferland Mendy won’t play against Arsenal. He’s not even in the squad. On March 12—25 days ago—he suffered a rupture in his left thigh. A sharp pull while sprinting at the Metropolitano sent him straight to the treatment room. The club initially estimated a one-month recovery and hoped that, if all went well, he might just make it to the Emirates. But the miracle never came. Mendy isn’t ready.

Fran García will start. He was rested against Real Sociedad—specifically to avoid overexerting him in case this scenario played out—and returned against Valencia. The decision is made, with little room for alternatives. Tchouaméni is suspended due to a third yellow card, so Camavinga will slot in as a pivot. That rules out any chance of him filling in at left-back. The lineup will be made up of Fran García and ten more.

It’ll be a big test: García will be tasked with marking Saka, arguably the most explosive player in Arsenal’s squad. It’s chance to silence the doubts about his defensive capabilities, a moment to step up.

Real Madrid welcome back Courtois

Meanwhile, Mendy is still not training with the group. The club estimates he may need another week of rehab. His sights are now set on the second leg, where he could return—perhaps even against Alavés. But for the trip to London? No chance.

As for Thibaut Courtois, the uncertainty is over. He took part in part of the training session this morning—mainly out of caution, not due to any serious issue. He’ll be available on Tuesday. He won’t be 100% match-sharp, having barely completed a full session before the game, but he’ll be there. And that’s what matters.

It’s been 22 days since he last played for Madrid—his last appearance being the controversial visit to La Cerámica. Since then: the international break (he played only the first match due to some discomfort) and three missed games—Leganés, Real Sociedad, and Valencia.

Courtois has been managing a knee issue caused by a cyst, which also affected his calf. A painful injury, but he’s now nearing the end of recovery. Today, he was back in goal, striking the ball and testing impact. Both he and Ancelotti know it—he’ll start at the Emirates.

Rüdiger and Valverde also trained, despite finishing the Valencia match looking worse for wear. It turned out to be nothing serious—just muscle overload. No alarms there. And Dani Ceballos? He’s still in the mix. As we’ve been reporting, his recovery has sparked optimism. It’s not a sure thing—still isn’t—but there’s a real chance he’ll make the trip to London. He trained partially with the group today, touched the ball, and took shots without hesitation.

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A starting spot is unlikely, but a place on the bench? Definitely possible. He could even see minutes in the second half, if needed. That wraps up a Sunday full of updates. The goalkeeper situation is now clear. So is the left-back dilemma: Mendy won’t make it. Fran García will start.

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