Mikel Arteta emphasised that Arsenal’s nerve-wracking journey to the Champions League semi-finals demonstrates their resilience and ability to handle the escalating pressures of their attempt to end a six-year trophy drought.
On Wednesday, Arteta’s team endured a tense quarter-final second leg against Sporting Lisbon, managing to cling to a goalless draw that ensured a 1-0 aggregate win.
Although the Gunners didn’t perform at their best at the Emirates Stadium, Sporting Lisbon failed to capitalise, with Geny Catamo coming closest for the visitors with a first-half strike that rebounded off the post.
This match marked yet another in a series of inconsistent performances from Arsenal, who have suffered three losses in their last five matches across all competitions, securing only one victory during that stretch.
However, Arteta firmly believes that the team’s ability to grind out another crucial result, despite a lacklustre display, highlights their fighting spirit and determination in the face of criticism over their supposed mental fragility.
“We are not perfect, and we acknowledge that, but there is merit in what the players have achieved,” Arteta remarked, as his club prepares to take on Atletico Madrid in the semi-finals.
“I expressed my gratitude for the effort they put in. A lot of hard work was involved. We had to achieve this in an unusual way, given that we missed many key players.”
“There are numerous factors that contribute to getting a result. It’s all about how you compete, especially when you’re aiming to win titles. That’s what is required.”
With Arsenal missing injured stars Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, and Jurrien Timber, Arteta praised Declan Rice’s courageous decision to play against Sporting despite being unable to train on Tuesday.
Rice’s relentless performance embodied the attitude that Arteta demands from his players.
“Absolutely, particularly during tough moments or when we lost possession. Declan was exhausted yesterday. He had no chance of playing.”
“He was not feeling well at all. But he managed to play 94 minutes today. He is a great leader and a top player for us.”
“I wish we were filming an Arsenal documentary this season; then you would understand everything that has occurred in the last 48 hours. The way people are discussing it, you would think Arsenal was in the relegation zone.”
‘A significant uplift’
Arsenal has advanced to the Champions League semi-finals for the second consecutive season, marking a historic achievement for the club.
The Gunners, who triumphed 4-0 over Atletico in the league phase back in October, are set to visit Madrid for the first leg on April 29, followed by the return leg at the Emirates on May 5.
“This is a monumental moment. Being part of the last four teams is a testament to great work. It’s a wonderful night,” said Arteta.
“I’m extremely pleased for our supporters. We are making strides that have not been taken at this club for 140 years.”
“We are in for two thrilling matches against Atletico. The accomplishments Diego Simeone has achieved there are remarkable. This tie is open for both sides.”
After losing to Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals last year, the north Londoners aspire to reach the final for the first time since 2006.
Arsenal has yet to secure a Champions League title, while they are also pursuing their first Premier League trophy in 22 years.
Currently, they sit six points clear at the top of the Premier League, although second-placed Manchester City has a game in hand and will host the Gunners in a crucial encounter on Sunday.
Arteta is optimistic that Arsenal’s advancement in the Champions League will provide a considerable boost as they approach the pivotal clash with City, who have recently found their form while the Gunners have stumbled.
“It is a tremendous uplift. Reaching the Champions League semi-finals is incredibly challenging. We’re going to relish it because we truly deserve it,” he stated.
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