Arteta Declares Playing in Consecutive Champions League Semi-Finals a ‘Privilege’

Last year, Arteta guided Arsenal to their first Champions League semi-final since 2009, only to be defeated by the eventual champions, Paris Saint-Germain. This season, he aims to lead the club to only their second final in the prestigious tournament.

Recently, Arsenal’s lead at the top of the Premier League has shrunk to three points, courtesy of Manchester City, who also have a game in hand. Their FA Cup campaign ended early with a loss to Southampton, but they managed to bounce back with a 1-0 victory against Newcastle United at the weekend.

“That win over Newcastle was huge for us,” Arteta said, speaking to reporters ahead of Wednesday’s opening leg in Madrid.

“You could immediately feel the energy and confidence as we head into this match. It’s a tremendous honour to be back here for two consecutive years in the Champions League semi-finals, representing our club.”

“This is a golden opportunity, and we intend to take it with both hands. Expect to see a team eager to assert themselves, to win, and to begin deciding the tie from tomorrow.”

Although Arsenal will be facing a formidable Atletico side that eliminated Barcelona in the previous round, Arteta’s men remain the only unbeaten team in this season’s tournament.

“We understand the challenge that awaits us, but we have proven our capabilities in Europe, no matter the venue,” Arteta asserted.

“We’ve maintained high levels of consistency, and tomorrow we need to play with that same confidence, determination, and will to win.”

“That’s the sentiment within the team and the club. This is the level we strive for, and we’ve earned the right to compete here through our sheer hard work, passion, and quality.”

In their last encounter during the league stage in October, Arsenal triumphed over Atletico with an impressive 4-0 scoreline. However, they had previously defeated PSG at the same junction last season before ultimately succumbing to the French giants in the semi-finals. Nevertheless, Arteta has chosen not to dwell on this aspect with his players.

“No, because it sends a negative message. There are plenty of positivity I can convey to the team,” he explained.

“We’ve obviously taken lessons from that match, but tomorrow is a whole new ball game, particularly in this setting.”

“We recognise their capabilities and strengths, and now we carry some experience in similar situations, and we know exactly what needs to be done.”