Real Madrid suffer two injury concerns during Arsenal defeat in Champions League

The holders of the Champions League face a significant challenge in the return leg at the Santiago Bernabeu next week after two outstanding free-kicks from Declan Rice and a superb finish by Mikel Merino secured a well-deserved victory for Mikel Arteta’s team at the Emirates Stadium.

Madrid will be without Eduardo Camavinga, who was dismissed in injury time for a second yellow card.

However, Carlo Ancelotti may also have to cope without both Federico Valverde and David Alaba, who reported feeling ‘discomfort’ following the defeat, as stated by The Athletic.

It is understood that neither Alaba nor Valverde has sustained serious injuries, but they will undergo additional tests with Madrid’s medical team.

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LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 08: David Alaba of Real Madrid battles for possession with Bukayo Saka of Arsenal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Quarter Final First Leg match between Arsenal FC and Real Madrid C.F. at Arsenal Stadium on April 08, 2025, in London, England. (Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images)

David Alaba was up against Bukayo Saka at the Emirates (Getty)

Madrid are set to play away against Alaves in La Liga on Sunday before hosting Arsenal for the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final next Wednesday.

After Madrid’s defeat, Ancelotti acknowledged that making a comeback in the second leg will be ‘very, very difficult’.