Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has declared the upcoming Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid as the “biggest night” of his career, as the Gunners aim to overcome the 15-time European champions.
Arsenal, seeking their first Champions League title, will host Real Madrid at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday, with the return leg in Madrid the following week. This marks a significant moment for the club, which last faced Real Madrid in European competition in 2005/06.
Arteta, who has managed Arsenal since 2019, emphasised the importance of the match, stating it’s the kind of occasion he entered football and management for.
He highlighted the 20-year gap since Arsenal’s last major European night and the opportunity to create a new chapter in the club’s history.
He expressed confidence in his team and the fans, stating that the atmosphere at the Emirates will be crucial to their success. Arteta is determined to see Arsenal consistently compete at this level.
With Arsenal trailing in the Premier League, the Champions League represents their best chance for silverware this season. They aim to avoid a repeat of last season’s quarterfinal exit to Bayern Munich.
Arteta confirmed that Bukayo Saka is expected to start, and Jurrien Timber and Ben White are available. The potential absence of Gabriel may see Jakub Kiwior partner William Saliba in defence.
He stressed the need to change Arsenal’s recent European history and expressed his team’s clear intention to pursue victory against Real Madrid.
