Tue Apr 01 20:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Arsenal Edge Past Fulham, But Injury Concerns Cloud Champions League Clash

**London, England** – Arsenal secured a narrow 2-1 victory over Fulham on Sunday, but the win was overshadowed by a growing injury crisis that casts a significant doubt over their upcoming Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid. Bukayo Saka’s return from injury and subsequent goal seven minutes after entering the match provided a much-needed boost, cutting Liverpool’s lead at the top of the Premier League to nine points. However, the Gunners suffered several key injuries.

Gabriel Magalhaes limped off early with a suspected hamstring injury, raising serious concerns about his availability for the crucial Real Madrid tie. Fellow defender Jurrien Timber also appeared to be in discomfort before being substituted. Further adding to Arsenal’s defensive woes, Ben White was left out of the squad due to a minor injury. These injuries leave manager Mikel Arteta with a serious selection headache ahead of the first leg against Real Madrid.

While Saka’s return offers a glimmer of hope, the overall mood was tempered by the injury setbacks. The match also highlighted the ongoing impact of Arsenal’s decision not to sign a striker in January. Midfielder Mikel Merino, deployed as a makeshift striker, scored his fifth goal in eight games, continuing his impressive goalscoring run. His performance, though effective, underscores the team’s vulnerability in the attacking third.

The game, therefore, served as a mixed bag for Arsenal. While the three points were vital in the Premier League race, the injury concerns and the looming Champions League clash dominate the post-match discussion. The upcoming fixtures against Everton and Real Madrid will determine the ultimate fate of Arsenal’s season.

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