Arsenal’s preparations for their high-stakes Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid have been thrown into disarray as manager Mikel Arteta grapples with a deepening defensive injury crisis. Just days before the first leg at the Santiago Bernabéu on April 8, key defenders Gabriel Magalhães and Jurriën Timber have joined the growing list of casualties.

Gabriel was the first to go down during Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Fulham, limping off just 16 minutes into the match after experiencing discomfort in his hamstring. A visibly concerned Arteta confirmed the situation post-match, saying, “Gabi felt something in his hamstring. We don't know how big that is… We’ll be assessing them tomorrow and understand better how we are with those two.”

Adding to the concern, Jurriën Timber, who had only recently returned from a long-term layoff, also hobbled off in the 77th minute with what appeared to be a recurrence of knee pain. Timber’s potential absence further limits Arteta’s already thin defensive options at a critical juncture in the season.

These setbacks come on top of existing injuries to Riccardo Calafiori and Ben White, both out with knee issues. Long-term absentees Takehiro Tomiyasu, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus are also unavailable, compounding Arsenal’s selection headache.

Despite the growing list of injuries, Arsenal secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Fulham at the Emirates Stadium. Mikel Merino opened the scoring in the first half, and Bukayo Saka, returning from his own three-month injury layoff, came off the bench to score the winner. But the jubilation of the three points was clearly overshadowed by the physical toll on the squad.

Speaking on the situation, Arteta acknowledged the gravity of the challenge ahead. “We have still another four [defenders] that are so willing that they will do their job. We want it so much that we’re going to give it a real go and we are very excited for the next week.”

With Arsenal still firmly in the Premier League title race and now entering the most crucial phase of their European campaign, the timing couldn’t be worse. The Real Madrid showdown represents not just a chance at glory but a test of resilience and depth for a squad now battling fatigue and injury.

Arteta will be hoping for positive news from the medical staff in the coming days. Until then, Arsenal fans will be holding their breath, knowing that their club's European ambitions may hinge on a patched-up backline facing one of the most dangerous attacking forces in world football.