Real Madrid Faces Heavy Criticism After Champions League Exit to Arsenal

Spanish media delivered a harsh critique of Real Madrid, manager Carlo Ancelotti, and key players such as Kylian Mbappé following the club's decisive Champions League quarter-final exit to Arsenal. Arsenal dominated both legs, with standout performances from Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Martinelli, resulting in a comprehensive 5-1 aggregate victory. The Spanish press described Madrid's performance as a 'colossal disaster' and 'fantastic failure,' emphasizing the team's inability to produce their trademark European comebacks and criticizing their star players for lackluster contributions. Headlines from outlets like Marca and AS lamented the end of an era and questioned Ancelotti's future at the club, noting that his position appears uncertain amid speculation of a managerial change. Praise was directed toward Arsenal's resilience and composure, while Real Madrid's attack was labeled as toothless and the team's overall cycle of dominance was declared to be nearing its end. The defeat was contrasted with the continued European progress of rivals Barcelona, adding further sting to Madrid's disappointment.