Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has issued a passionate call to his players, urging them to leave everything on the pitch as they gear up for a crucial Champions League semi-final clash against Paris Saint-Germain this week. With a spot in the final at stake, Arteta’s rallying cry underscores the high stakes and the Gunners’ burning ambition to end their long wait for European glory.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, Arteta didn’t hold back. “This is the moment. You give your lives for this. Every drop of sweat, every decision, every moment—leave it all out there,” he said, his words resonating with a squad that has defied expectations this season. Arsenal’s journey to the semi-finals, marked by victories over Bayern Munich and Inter Milan, has reignited belief among fans that the club can finally claim the elusive Champions League crown.
Arteta’s intense message comes as Arsenal face a formidable PSG side, led by Kylian Mbappé and bolstered by a blend of youthful exuberance and veteran nous. The Spanish tactician acknowledged the challenge, praising PSG’s “world-class talent” and “fearless approach” but insisted his team is ready to match them blow for blow. “We respect them, but we’re not here to watch. We’re here to fight, to impose ourselves,” Arteta said.
The Gunners have been in scintillating form, with Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard leading a dynamic attack, while the defensive partnership of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães has provided a rock-solid foundation. Arteta hinted at no major changes to his starting XI, emphasizing trust in his players to deliver under pressure. “This group has shown they can handle the biggest stages. Now it’s about showing it again,” he added.
Arsenal’s last Champions League final appearance was in 2006, a heartbreaking loss to Barcelona. For Arteta, who has transformed the club since taking charge in 2019, reaching the final would cap a remarkable journey. But he was quick to temper expectations, focusing solely on the task at hand. “We’re not thinking about the final yet. It’s about two legs, 180 minutes, and being better than PSG.”