Arsenal are set to take on Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals at the Emirates on Tuesday.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed unwavering confidence in his team’s ability to defeat Real Madrid in their upcoming Champions League quarter-final clash. Speaking ahead of the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, Arteta described the match as “100 percent the biggest night of my career” and emphasized the importance of this opportunity for Arsenal to write their own story in European football.
Arteta acknowledged the magnitude of the challenge, as Real Madrid boasts an impressive record of 15 Champions League titles. However, he remains optimistic about Arsenal’s chances, highlighting the excitement and determination within the club. “At 8pm tomorrow night, 11 players, 60,000 fans, I am really super convinced that we are ready to win and to beat them. That’s the mindset that I want,” Arteta stated.
Buy Arsenal's 2025–26 Home Kit through the ArsenalTalks Shop
Click this link to buy the new 2025–26 Arsenal home kit through our ArsenalTalks Shop.
Arsenal can overcome Real Madrid with the right mindset and tactical approach, Arteta believes. Despite setbacks in the Premier League, where Arsenal has fallen behind leaders Liverpool, the Champions League represents a golden opportunity for the Gunners to secure silverware this season. Arteta emphasized the need to change Arsenal’s European narrative, which has seen limited success in recent years. “There is a massive gap there for so many years when nothing has happened in this football club in relation to European competitions. And we need to change that quickly,” he added.
The match against Real Madrid is expected to be a thrilling encounter, with Arsenal missing key defender Gabriel Magalhaes due to injury. Arteta is likely to rely on Bukayo Saka, who is set to make his first start in months, and other players like Jurrien Timber and Ben White to step up in Gabriel’s absence.
As Arsenal prepares for this historic clash, Arteta’s confidence and determination serve as a rallying cry for the team and fans alike. The Gunners are ready to deliver and prove their mettle against one of the most successful clubs in European football.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings