Arteta Urges Arsenal Players To Be Brave And Believe Ahead Of Real Madrid Clash

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Arsenal's manager, Mikel Arteta, has urged his team to display courage and self-belief as they prepare for the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid. The Gunners secured a 3-0 victory in the first leg at Emirates Stadium, thanks to two impressive free-kicks by Declan Rice and a fine goal from Mikel Merino. However, Real Madrid is known for their comeback ability, especially at Santiago Bernabeu.

Arteta emphasised that Arsenal must maintain the same winning mindset they had in London. "Our approach is to win it. The same as we did in London," Arteta stated during a press conference. He acknowledged Real Madrid's history of comebacks and stressed the importance of being brave and determined. "We have to show the mindset to win. To be brave, to be dominant and to be determined," he added.

Real Madrid's reputation for turning around losing positions is well-founded. Last season, they staged a dramatic comeback against Bayern Munich with two late goals from substitute Joselu, securing their 15th European Cup. In the 2021-22 season, they achieved similar feats against Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Manchester City.

Despite this, Arteta remains optimistic due to historical data. Out of 47 instances where teams led by three goals in Champions League knockout ties, only four were eliminated. This statistic provides some reassurance for Arsenal as they aim to reach their third-ever Champions League semi-final.

Arteta encouraged his players to embrace the occasion's excitement and atmosphere as they strive for their first semi-final since 2009. "When you have to create a story, first of all you have to be excited about it," he said. He highlighted the importance of preparation and conviction in achieving their goals.

The emotional aspect of such matches cannot be underestimated. Arteta noted that Arsenal can draw on their experiences from this season's Premier League title race with Liverpool. "The emotional aspect is really important," he said, expressing confidence in his team's ability to handle various situations.

Team Updates and Confidence Boost

Arsenal will gain confidence from their unbeaten record against Real Madrid in three encounters (two wins and one draw), without conceding any goals. Additionally, Ben White and Thomas Partey are set to return from injury, providing a boost for the team. However, Jorginho will miss out due to a rib injury sustained during Arsenal's Premier League draw with Brentford.

The Gunners are eager to make history by advancing further in the competition while maintaining focus on each challenge ahead.