- Arsenal advanced to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals after a goalless draw with Sporting CP at the Emirates Stadium, securing their place in the final four
- Mikel Arteta said his side’s progress had been driven by resilience, pointing to the intense physical and mental demands of competing across multiple competitions
- The manager admitted Arsenal had not been perfect but praised his players’ determination, as attention shifted to a crucial Premier League clash with Manchester City
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed why his team remains the only Premier League side still competing in this season’s UEFA Champions League, attributing their progress to resilience amid a punishing fixture schedule.
The Gunners secured their place in the semi-finals following a goalless draw against Sporting CP at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday evening. The result ensured Arsenal advanced to the final four, where they are set to face Atlético Madrid in what promises to be a fiercely contested tie.
Despite the achievement, the performance itself left room for criticism, with Arsenal failing to produce their usual attacking sharpness. However, Arteta was keen to stress the bigger picture, highlighting the immense physical and mental demands placed on players competing across multiple competitions.
“This is why we are the only English team left in the competition; the league and its schedule take a toll on you, making it very challenging to achieve what we have accomplished,” Arteta told reporters after the match.
He admitted that his side has not been perfect and acknowledged the need for improvement in certain areas. Nevertheless, the Spaniard praised his players for their determination and commitment throughout a demanding campaign.
“We are not without flaws; we must improve in certain areas, that is clear, and we recognise that,” he said. “But there is merit in what these players have achieved, and they truly deserve it.”
Arteta also shed light on the physical struggles within his squad. Midfielder Declan Rice was reportedly unwell prior to the match but still managed to complete 94 minutes at a high level. Defender Piero Hincapié was also singled out for his effort, with the manager noting that every player is pushing themselves to the limit for the team.
Attention now turns back to domestic action, as Arsenal prepare for a crucial Premier League showdown against Manchester City on Sunday. The outcome of that fixture could prove decisive in the race for the league title, further intensifying an already demanding schedule.
With both domestic and European ambitions still alive, Arsenal’s campaign continues to test the squad’s depth and endurance, while Arteta remains confident in his players’ ability to rise to the challenge.