As the Champions League quarter-final second leg looms large, Arsenal’s preparations have been disrupted by injury concerns to two of their most experienced midfielders. Thomas Partey and Jorginho both limped out of the 1-1 draw against Brentford, adding to a growing list of worries for Mikel Arteta ahead of Wednesday’s decisive encounter with Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu.

With the Gunners holding a 3-0 advantage from the first leg, the focus had been on managing the moment, retaining composure, and executing a controlled game in Spain. Now, Arteta’s immediate concern turns to fitness and availability.

“We didn’t expect the issue with Thomas that we had to take him out. And then for sure we didn’t expect what happened with Jorginho that we ended up playing with 10 men,” Arteta revealed post-match at the Emirates Stadium.

“[Partey] felt something so we didn’t want to take any risks.”

Arteta offered little detail on the extent of Partey’s problem but made clear the situation remains uncertain.

When pressed for more information, the Arsenal manager said: “Something. We don’t know [if he will be fit for the Real Madrid game]. I haven’t spoken to the doctors yet. So they will check him now and see how he is.”

For a player whose rhythm has already been disrupted by fitness setbacks this season, any fresh concern is worrying. Partey’s role in shielding the back line and providing vertical thrust through midfield remains vital to how Arsenal want to manage high-stakes continental ties.

If Partey’s withdrawal raised eyebrows, the sight of Jorginho struggling to breathe was even more alarming.

Asked about the Italian midfielder’s issue, Arteta noted: “It looks like it, I don’t exactly know. But yeah, the problem is breathing, so I’d say he could not carry on.”

Speaking to the BBC, Arteta elaborated: “He said he could not breathe properly so it might be to do with one of the ribs. It is strange because [he] normally carries on so that means it is something significant I think.”

Arteta also confirmed Ben White’s absence from the Brentford squad was injury-related and remains unsure of his availability for Madrid.

“Again, we don’t know [if he will be okay for Wednesday]. He could not be in condition to be in the squad today and be selected,” Arteta admitted.

“So we have a few days but we’ll have to wait and see.”