Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed his team’s ambition to achieve more than just reaching the semi-finals of the Champions League ahead of their high-stakes clash against PSG on Tuesday, April 29. Arsenal have reached the final four of the prestigious competition for the first time since 2009, thanks to a 5-1 aggregate victory over Real Madrid, which has marked a significant milestone for the club. The Gunners' run has been impressive, with Arteta's side remaining unbeaten in all competitions for the last two months, a run that Arteta has lauded as a testament to his players' mentality and resilience.
Speaking to the media before their clash with PSG, Arteta highlighted how the team’s progress to this stage of the competition speaks volumes about their mindset, spirit, and ambition. "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 said, reflecting on their remarkable journey so far. "We are making history, and it's a beautiful story right now, but we want more."
Arsenal’s morale heading into the first leg against PSG is high, especially considering their previous victory over the French giants in the league stage of this season’s Champions League. Arteta believes the players are confident going into the game and have a strong belief in their abilities. "The players are really resonating with what we are doing, and they feel like we can face these guys and be better than them," Arteta added. He noted that the team’s mindset and belief were key in their dominant performances against Madrid and other top teams in the earlier rounds, and that same energy will drive them against PSG.
When asked if he viewed his team as favorites to win the Champions League, Arteta was cautious, acknowledging that the team’s history in the competition has yet to see them lift the trophy. "When you look at the history, no, because we've never done it," he stated. "Hopefully, if someone believes we can do it, it's because of the performances and what the team is transmitting against big opposition."
Arsenal’s approach heading into the game has been one of aggressiveness, belief, and determination—qualities Arteta was particularly proud of after their recent matches. "I loved our presence, how we went out there, our body language, the intensity, how aggressive we were. We played with real belief and determination, and when you're facing big opponents, immediately you need to put a game into that context."
As they prepare for the first leg at home, the excitement is palpable in the Arsenal camp, with players eager to show what they are capable of in one of Europe’s most coveted competitions. Arteta’s side, after an impressive season and a historic run, will be hoping to take the next step toward fulfilling their Champions League dream.
