Real Vulnerability Is Evident Ahead Of Arsenal Encounter

Real Madrid's attacking superstars need no introduction, but behind them lies a soft, vulnerable underbelly which Arsenal aim to exploit on Tuesday in a Champions League quarter-final first leg clash.

- Agencies [e-mail]

MADRID:

Carlo Ancelotti's forwards have not always been able to varnish over the team's defensive deficiencies, as was the case in a 2-1 defeat by Valencia on Saturday in La Liga. The surprise loss left Real Madrid four points behind leaders Barcelona and was their 10th of the season across all competitions. Last year, as Madrid became Spanish and European champions, they suffered just two all season.

Ancelotti in part attributes the change to Kylian Mbappe's arrival from Paris Saint-Germain, offering Madrid extra edge in attack at the expense of protection in the back.

Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo Goes were the team's main stars going forward last season, and Mbappe has joined them to form a quartet.

Madrid also lost Toni Kroos last summer, with the German retiring, and they miss his poise and precision in midfield.