BREAKING NEWS ‼️: “We could be easily defeated If Arteta play him against Real Madrid”: Arsenal legend Ian Wright names ONE player who must not start for Arsenal against Real Madrid after horror show against Everton.

Arsenal’s journey in the UEFA Champions League has been nothing short of a thrilling rollercoaster ride, but as the Gunners prepare to face Real Madrid in the most anticipated clash of their season, club legend Ian Wright has raised alarm bells over one player’s inclusion in the starting XI.

Following a lacklustre performance in Arsenal’s 2-0 defeat to Everton in the Premier League, Wright didn’t mince words as he voiced serious concerns about the player’s form heading into the high-stakes European encounter.

“This is Real Madrid we’re talking about,” Wright said during a post-match analysis on Premier League TV. “You don’t take risks in games like this. If Arteta starts him, we could be easily defeated. He was all over the place against Everton.”

Although Wright didn’t mention the player’s name immediately, many fans quickly figured out he was referring to Jakub Kiwior, the Polish defender who had a horror show at Goodison Park. Caught out of position several times, failing to track runners, and losing duels, Kiwior looked a shadow of the player Arsenal fans had started to trust in recent weeks.

Arsenal supporters were left stunned by his performance, especially considering the level of intensity and discipline needed to face the likes of Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo, who have been tearing apart defenses across Europe.

“You can’t afford passengers against Real Madrid,” Wright continued. “This is a club with 14 Champions League titles. They don’t forgive mistakes. And if you’re not 100 percent focused, they’ll punish you.”

Arteta now finds himself at a critical crossroads. With injuries affecting his defensive line, Kiwior had been one of the go-to options in recent weeks. But after the Everton performance and Wright’s scathing remarks, the Arsenal boss might be forced to make a difficult decision.

Some fans have backed Wright’s opinion, flooding social media with agreement. “We love Kiwior, but he isn’t ready for a game of this magnitude,” one supporter posted. “Real Madrid is a different animal. One error, and the tie is over.”

Others, however, have called for patience and faith in the young defender, arguing that every player can have an off day. But with a Champions League semifinal on the horizon, Arsenal can’t afford any margin for error.

The Gunners have come a long way under Arteta’s guidance. After years of rebuilding, they’re finally back in the elite conversation. Facing Real Madrid is both a reward and a test of how far they’ve truly come.

Wright’s comments may be harsh, but they come from a place of experience and love for the club. As one of Arsenal’s most respected voices, his opinions often carry significant weight among fans and even within the club hierarchy.

Arteta, known for his calculated approach, will likely analyze every detail before deciding who gets the nod in the backline. With the likes of Gabriel, Saliba, and even Ben White available, Kiwior may be dropped to the bench in favour of a more experienced and battle-tested back four.

The stakes couldn’t be higher. Arsenal are chasing their first-ever Champions League title, while Madrid will be hunting their 15th. Every decision—especially in defense—could define the legacy of this squad.

As the first leg draws near, anticipation continues to build. Fans are eager to see how Arteta responds—not just tactically, but emotionally. Will he stick with his players through thick and thin, or will he make a ruthless decision in pursuit of European glory?

Only time will tell. But if Ian Wright’s words are anything to go by, the Gunners must tread carefully. One wrong move could be the difference between history and heartbreak.

Stay tuned as we bring you all the latest from the Emirates and Santiago Bernabéu ahead of this colossal showdown.