Arteta Expects Champions League Dynamic Atmosphere to Lift Arsenal

Mikel Arteta believes the Champions League dynamic atmosphere can inspire Arsenal’s injury-hit squad as they face PSV in the last-16 first leg.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta believes the unique Champions League dynamic atmosphere can inspire his injury-hit side as they prepare for the last-16 first-leg clash with PSV Eindhoven. Despite recent struggles, the Spaniard insists the competition’s urgency and energy could lift the Gunners at a crucial moment.

Arsenal’s Premier League form has dipped in recent weeks, leaving them 13 points behind leaders Liverpool. Goals have been hard to come by, with only one shot on target against Nottingham Forest and just two in a defeat to West Ham United.

Injuries have only worsened the situation. Key players Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Martinelli remain sidelined, leaving Arteta short of attacking options.

Arteta Confident in European Response

Despite the setbacks, Arteta remains confident Arsenal can rise to the occasion in Europe. He highlighted the squad’s strong connection and demanded that every player perform at their best.

The Arsenal boss also praised his team’s Champions League defensive record, having conceded just three goals in the group stage — a solid foundation for the knockout rounds.

Timber Echoes Manager’s Belief

Defender Jurrien Timber backed Arteta’s optimism, stressing that the Gunners must focus on scoring goals and winning games to shift momentum. He insisted that Arsenal has the quality to overcome challenges and deliver a strong result against PSV.

As Arsenal step into the knockout stages, Arteta’s aim is to harness the Champions League’s atmosphere to inspire his squad. With defensive resilience already in place and the potential return of injured attackers later in the campaign, the Gunners remain determined to chase European success.

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