As Arsenal prepare to face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League semi-finals, manager Mikel Arteta has made it clear that the club’s ambitions extend beyond this stage. Following a commanding 5-1 aggregate victory over Real Madrid in the quarter-finals, Arteta emphasized that reaching the semi-finals is not the ultimate goal for the Gunners.
“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 stated. “We are making history, and it’s a beautiful story right now, but we want more.”
A Historic Opportunity
This marks Arsenal’s third appearance in the Champions League semi-finals and their first since 2009. The club has never won Europe’s premier club competition, with their closest attempt being a runner-up finish in 2006. Arteta sees the upcoming clash with PSG as a chance to change that narrative.
“The players are really resonating with what we are doing, and they feel like we can face these guys and be better than them,” he said. “That’s the feeling we had against Madrid and in the previous rounds, and that’s how we feel today.”
Fan Involvement Crucial
Arteta has called upon the Arsenal faithful to play their part in the semi-final first leg at the Emirates Stadium. He urged fans to “bring their boots” and fully engage in creating an electrifying atmosphere to support the team. “We need our supporters to be with us every step of the way,” Arteta emphasized.
Team News and Preparations
Arsenal will be without midfielder Thomas Partey, who is suspended, and defender Riccardo Calafiori, who is injured. However, there is positive news as Ben White and Mikel Merino have returned to training and could be available for selection.
The Gunners are currently unbeaten in over two months across all competitions and have previously defeated PSG 2-0 in the group stage. PSG, on the other hand, arrive in London following their first domestic league defeat of the season.
Aiming for the Pinnacle
Arteta’s vision for Arsenal goes beyond domestic success; he aspires to make the club the best in the world. “We want to be the kings of everything,” he declared. “At set pieces, the best in the world, at high press, the best in the world, attacking open spaces, the best in the world.”
As Arsenal stand on the cusp of a potential Champions League final, the determination and unity within the squad, combined with Arteta’s leadership, signal a new era of ambition for the North London club.
