Courtois Criticizes Madrid After Arsenal UCL Defeat

Real Madrid were eliminated from the UEFA Champions League by Arsenal after losing 2-1 in the quarterfinal second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu, resulting in a 5-1 aggregate defeat. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois criticized his team's lack of cohesion and the absence of a natural striker like Joselu, while implicitly questioning the impact of new signing Kylian Mbappe. Mbappe, who joined from PSG and has scored 32 goals this season, was largely ineffective against Arsenal and suffered an ankle injury that makes his participation in the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona uncertain. Courtois praised Arsenal's defensive organization and admitted Madrid were second best over both legs. The defeat has intensified speculation over manager Carlo Ancelotti's future, with reports suggesting he may depart at the end of the season. Despite their Champions League exit, Real Madrid remain in the race for both the La Liga title and the Copa del Rey.