Arteta urges Arsenal to look beyond Real Madrid
Creator: David Price | Credit: Arsenal FC via Getty Images
Mikel Arteta has challenged his Arsenal squad to embrace the Champions League quarter-finals with ambition, urging them to set their sights beyond Real Madrid and push for a place in the last four.
“It’s very difficult but we are capable to do it,” Arteta declared after his side eased past PSV Eindhoven, securing back-to-back quarter-final appearances for the first time in years.
Arsenal’s European campaign last season ended at the hands of Bayern Munich, and they now face an even greater challenge against 15-time champions and current holders, Real Madrid, who edged past Atletico on penalties.
Arteta emphasized the significance of Arsenal’s consistent presence among Europe’s elite, stating: “We are for the second consecutive season in the Champions League quarter-finals and we have to recognise it is very difficult to do. Now we want to make the next step.”
Acknowledging the high stakes, he added: “It is important because we want to win, because the club needs it. We are a club that wants to be the best and wants to be competing with the best in the world. To do that, you have to constantly be there. We’ve done it for two years in a row, and we have the capacity and ability to do it even better.”
With Madrid looming, Arteta’s men will need to prove they truly belong among Europe’s finest.
