Arsenal’s Arteta Sets Ambitious Goals Against Real Madrid in Champions League

London, England – Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has outlined a strategy to help his squad overcome their mental barriers in the UEFA Champions League as they prepare to face defending champions Real Madrid in the quarterfinals. Following a solid performance against PSV Eindhoven that secured a spot in the last eight, Arteta is eager to advance further in the tournament.

Last season marked Arteta’s debut in the Champions League with Arsenal, leading the team to the quarterfinals. However, he is determined to push his squad past this stage this time. “This club hasn’t been in the Champions League quarterfinals twice in 15 years, which is a long time. But we have to create our own history now, and that means reaching these knockout stages and winning them,” Arteta said in an exclusive interview.

Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes have diminished following a recent defeat to Liverpool, leaving Arteta and his team eyeing the Champions League as their best chance for silverware this season. “The dream is to win, to win the big trophies, and that’s what we’re aiming to do,” added Arteta. He expressed excitement about encountering Real Madrid, a historically dominant force in Europe.

“We have an opponent who’s going to demand the maximum from us in Europe’s best competition, so we are going to go for it. We have to believe in ourselves from the first minute and be effective in the decisive moments,” he said.

The upcoming match is further complicated by the injury status of key players, particularly defender Gabriel Magalhães, who is set to undergo surgery for a hamstring injury. Arsenal announced that he will likely miss several matches, including both legs against Real Madrid.

“Everyone at the club will be fully committed to supporting Gabi to ensure he returns to peak form as quickly as possible,” the club stated. Gabriel has been integral to Arsenal’s defense and will be sorely missed, especially in the high-stakes matches ahead.

Filling in for Gabriel may be Jakub Kiwior, who has received praise from Arteta for his reliability and readiness to step up. “He’s been incredibly reliable—whenever we need him, he’s always there,” said Arteta.

In brighter news for Arsenal, winger Bukayo Saka has recovered from a long-term injury and is likely to return, posing a renewed threat against Madrid. “Bukayo is ready!” Arteta announced, acknowledging Saka’s significance to the team’s offensive strategy.

As the two sides prepare to meet at the Emirates Stadium, expectations are high. Real Madrid, renowned for their Champions League experience, will face a formidable challenge from a determined Arsenal squad intent on overcoming obstacles both on and off the pitch.