Mikel Arteta has faith in his Arsenal squad following tense clash that secured a spot in the Champions League semi-finals.

Arteta’s team weathered a tense quarter-final second leg against Sporting Lisbon on Wednesday, managing to secure a goalless draw that resulted in a 1-0 aggregate win.

Although the Gunners were far from their best at the Emirates Stadium, Sporting failed to capitalise, with Geny Catamo coming closest to scoring for the visitors with a first-half volley that struck the post.

This match added to a worrying trend of inconsistent performances from Arsenal, who have suffered three losses in their last five matches across all competitions, recording only one victory in that time.

However, Arteta believes that their ability to grind out another crucial result, despite a lacklustre performance, highlights their spirit and determination in the face of criticism regarding their mental fortitude.

“We are not perfect, and we acknowledge that, but there is immense value in what the players have achieved,” stated Arteta, whose side will face Atletico Madrid in the semi-finals.

“My message was one of gratitude for the effort expended. A tremendous amount of work went into this result, particularly as we were missing several key players.

“What we demonstrated in securing this result was vital. It’s about the way you compete, especially when you’re aiming for titles—that’s what is essential.

With Arsenal missing the injured Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, and Jurrien Timber, Arteta praised Declan Rice for his decision to play against Sporting despite being unable to train on Tuesday.

Rice’s determined performance epitomised the attitude that Arteta demands from his squad.

“Absolutely, especially in tough moments or when we lose possession. Declan was exhausted yesterday; he had no chance to play,” Arteta noted.

“He wasn’t feeling well at all, but he played for 94 minutes today. He’s a fantastic leader and an outstanding player for us.

“I wish we were documenting this season for an Arsenal documentary, as it would shed light on everything that has transpired over the last 48 hours. You’d think Arsenal were in the relegation zone based on how people are talking.“

‘A significant boost’

Arsenal has reached the Champions League semi-finals for consecutive seasons for the first time in their history.

The Gunners, who dominated Atletico 4-0 during the league phase in October, will head to Madrid for the first leg on April 29, followed by the second leg at the Emirates on May 5.

“This is a momentous occasion. Being among the last four teams is a commendable achievement. It’s a fantastic night,” Arteta expressed.

“I’m extremely pleased for all our supporters. We are taking steps that this club hasn’t experienced in 140 years.

“We’re looking forward to two exhilarating nights against Atletico. The accomplishments Diego Simeone has achieved there are remarkable. It’s an open tie for both teams.

Having been eliminated by Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals last year, the north Londoners are eager to reach their first final since 2006.

Arsenal has yet to win the Champions League and is also pursuing their first Premier League title in 22 years.

Currently, they sit six points clear at the top of the Premier League, though second-placed Manchester City have a game in hand and will be hosting the Gunners for a crucial clash on Sunday.

Arteta is optimistic that Arsenal’s progress in the Champions League will provide a significant morale boost ahead of this pivotal match against City, who have been in fine form while the Gunners have stumbled.

“This is a huge lift. Being in the Champions League semi-finals is incredibly challenging, and we’re going to relish it because we’ve earned that right,” he stated.