Mikel Arteta is confident that Arsenal can defeat Real Madrid in what he describes as the “biggest night” of his career during their Champions League quarter-final clash.
Arsenal, who have never won the European title, will face the 15-time champions at the Emirates on Tuesday, with the return leg in Madrid next week. The two teams have met only twice in European competition, with Arsenal emerging victorious in the 2005/06 Champions League round of 16.
“It’s 100 percent the biggest night of my career,” Arteta, who has been at the helm since 2019, told reporters on Monday. “This is why I came into football, to manage, and especially to be here at this club.”
Arteta, who also captained Arsenal, continued: “It’s been 20 years since we’ve had this kind of game, and it’s a great opportunity to create our own legacy. This is why we’re here. The excitement around the club and the significance of this match is immense. This is the level Arsenal should be at, and we are proud to be there. We are ready to perform tomorrow.”
Arteta is determined to win, saying, “At 8:00 pm tomorrow, with 11 players and 60,000 fans, I am absolutely convinced we are ready to win and beat them. That is the mindset we have.”
With Arsenal trailing 11 points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, the Champions League represents their best chance for a trophy this season. Last season, they were eliminated at the same stage by Bayern Munich.
However, Arteta is focused on creating a new narrative. “There has been a huge gap in this club’s European journey for many years, and we need to change that quickly. It’s just the first leg, but the team’s intention is clear. We are going for it.”
Jurrien Timber and Ben White, who played an hour in Arsenal’s 1-1 draw at Everton on Saturday, are both expected to be available. Jakub Kiwior may also start alongside William Saliba in place of the injured Gabriel.
