Former gunner hero fears the influence of mbappe on Kiwiol
Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit fears Jakubu Kiwior will “learning at work” if he thrusts his face with Real Madrid tonight.
Gabriel’s injury means gunner boss Mikel Arteta will have to score a weakened back four against the strength of Killian Mbappe, Rodrigo and Vinicius Jr. as Arsenal won Madrid in the first leg of the Emirates Champions League quarterfinals.
Kiwiall started at Everton on Saturday and worked well in a 1-1 draw, allowing him to hold his place. Or Arteta could shuffle things and play Juliantimber on the right back, shifting Ben White to the center alongside William Saliba.
Both solutions carry risks, and Petit accepts that Arsenal is missing out on Gabriel Brazilian International.
There’s nothing beat the excitement of these huge Champions League nights.
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– Arsenal (@Arsenal) April 8, 2025
Gabriel’s absence is a big blow to Arsenal – Petit
He said William Hill: “Gabriel is a top-class central defender who has consistently proven his worth. Over the past few seasons, his partnership with William Saliba has become one of the strongest in Europe. Arsenal really feels his absence.
“Jakub Kiwior has done well against Everton, but with all his respect, Everton is not Real Madrid. Playing with someone like Killianm Bappe is a completely different challenge.
“This is a big step for Kiwior. I have a lot of respect for him, but he hasn’t seen much at Arsenal yet. This will be a real test. He learns and doing so against Real Madrid means learning the job at the highest level.
“That being said, it’s not just Cuweiol. Arsenal’s answer lies not in the individual, but in their collective efforts. If they become compact, communicate well and focus well, it can make life very difficult for Real Madrid.”
Saliba and Rice must shine
Gabriel’s absence will focus more on Saliba and central midfielder Declan Rice.
Petit, who also performed at Madrid’s arch rival, Barcelona, added: “I think Declan Rice and William Saliba are Arsenal’s defensive spines. They are Arsenal’s most important players against Real Madrid.
“Raya needs to be fully focused throughout the game, and sometimes he may find himself a little above the pitch – almost like an extra centre-back – his positioning and awareness are important.
“The speed and threats of people like Kylian Mbappé can change things very quickly. That space behind the defense is always dangerous.
“For me, the leaders of this Arsenal team are Rice and Saliba. They need to communicate constantly, organize the backline and have full control over the defensive structure throughout the game.”