 |
| Arsenal's Ambition Goes Beyond Just a Champions League Semi-Final, According to Arteta. |
Arsenal are set to face Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in their first Champions League semi-final in 16 years, with the first leg scheduled for Tuesday. However, manager Mikel Arteta has made it clear that Arsenal’s ambition is far greater than just reaching the semi-finals.
Ahead of the crucial match, Arteta spoke to the press on Monday, stating that his team is not content with just being one of the top four teams in Europe—they want more.
"We have overcome a lot of issues and challenges this season, and the fact that the team is here as one of the best four teams in Europe, it says a lot about the mindset, the spirit, and how much we really want it," Arteta said.
"We are making history, and it's a beautiful story right now, but we want more."
Arsenal’s Journey to the Semi-Finals
The clash with PSG will be Arsenal’s third Champions League semi-final appearance, and their first since 2009. They previously triumphed over Real Madrid with a 5-1 aggregate score in the quarter-finals, a result that highlights the team’s serious intent.
Arsenal also managed to beat PSG 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium earlier this season in October. What's more impressive is that they are unbeaten in their last eight Champions League matches (7 wins, 1 draw).
Arteta: We Can Be Better Than PSG
Arteta expressed his confidence in the team, stating that the players feel ready for the challenge and are confident they can outperform PSG.
"The players are really resonating with what we are doing, and they feel like we can face these guys and be better than them," Arteta said.
"That's the feeling we had against Madrid and in the previous rounds, and that's how we feel today. I look them in the eyes, and they can't wait to play tomorrow."
Arsenal’s Team Status Ahead of the Match
Arsenal will be without the suspended Thomas Partey, while Riccardo Calafiori is still sidelined due to injury. However, Ben White and Mikel Merino could return to action after recovering from their respective injuries.
"We lost Thomas unfortunately very late in the game against Real Madrid," Arteta said. "Ben and Mikel were able to train, let's see if they are able to start tomorrow. [Calafiori] is still not fit."
Arteta’s Realistic View on Arsenal's Chances
Despite their impressive performances, Arteta acknowledged that Arsenal’s history does not yet include a Champions League trophy, and they must face that reality. When asked if Arsenal should be considered favorites to lift Europe’s most prestigious trophy this year, Arteta answered honestly.
"When you look at the history, no, because we’ve never done it," he said. "Hopefully, if someone believes we can do it, it’s because of the performances and what the team is transmitting against big opposition."
Arsenal’s journey is truly remarkable, but the team remains focused on achieving even greater success. This Champions League semi-final is just another step toward a much bigger goal.
Gulir ke atas untuk lanjut membaca
Link nonton film terbaru pilihan kami
*BACA BERITA TERKINI LAINNYA DI GOOGLE NEWS
