Arsenal legend Ian Wright has expressed his concerns about the team’s defense ahead of their Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid. Wright believes that the Spanish giants will try to exploit Jakub Kiwior, who stepped in for the injured Gabriel Magalhaes during Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Fulham.

Gabriel had to leave the pitch due to a hamstring injury, and Kiwior replaced him. However, his performance was not convincing. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta admitted after the match that he is worried about Gabriel’s injury and the impact it could have on the team’s defense.

Adding to Arsenal’s defensive troubles, Ben White was not in the squad against Fulham, and Jurrien Timber was substituted in the second half. This leaves Arteta with limited options as they prepare to face Real Madrid.

Wright is particularly worried about how Arsenal will cope without Gabriel. Speaking on Premier League Productions, he said, “Without Gabriel Magalhaes, you’re looking at Kiwior, and even today [against Fulham], there were a few positional mistakes that you cannot afford to make against Real Madrid.”

He added, “Real Madrid will look for any weakness to take advantage of, so we need defenders who are completely focused to stop them from scoring. If Gabriel was available, I would feel much more confident.”

With Arsenal’s defensive uncertainty, the upcoming match against Real Madrid could be a tough challenge. Fans will be hoping that Arteta finds a solution before the big game.