Arteta Reveals The Big Problem They’ve Been Dealt With Ahead Of PSG Match

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed unwavering confidence ahead of the second leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final clash against Paris Saint-Germain. Despite trailing from the first leg, the Spaniard is adamant that his side has what it takes to turn the tie around and book their place in the final.

Speaking in the build-up to the blockbuster showdown in Paris, Arteta’s tone was filled with passion and optimism. “Excitement, goosebumps, wanting the day to arrive, the feeling of being very prepared, very convinced and knowing that the opportunity is to play in a Champions League final,” he said. “And when you get to that point, you have to give your life for it.”

His words reflect the urgency and hunger that Arsenal will need to display if they are to overturn the first-leg deficit. The Gunners were edged out narrowly at the Emirates last week, but Arteta insists that the margin was extremely thin and not a true reflection of the performance.

“Look, when I was going through the tunnel, I see Tomiyasu out, Calafiori out, Gabriel Magalhães out, Kai Havertz out, Gabriel Jesus out, Thomas Partey out, Jorginho out. Starters!” he revealed. “And I see the team compete and I get goosebumps. Because we have a lot of merit and yet the game was by very, very, very small margins that weren’t on our side that day.”

Injuries to key players certainly disrupted Arsenal’s flow, but Arteta refused to dwell on excuses. Instead, he chose to highlight the resilience and quality his depleted squad showed against a star-studded PSG side. His pride in their effort and belief in their ability to deliver when it matters most is clear.

The return leg in Paris will be a significant challenge, but Arteta believes that his side’s Champions League journey is far from over. “That’s why I’m very optimistic,” he said confidently. The tone from the Arsenal camp is one of determination rather than fear. With the likes of Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard, and Bukayo Saka expected to play key roles, the Gunners have every reason to feel they can rise to the occasion.

Arsenal’s hopes will also be boosted by the possible return of several injured players, including Calafiori and Partey. Whether or not Arteta opts to start them remains to be seen, but having more options available will only strengthen the squad ahead of what promises to be a thrilling night in France.

For Arteta, the mission is simple: win in Paris and make history. Arsenal have not reached a Champions League final since 2006, but under his leadership, belief in the project continues to grow. Wednesday night will be the ultimate test—not just of tactics and talent, but of desire.

And according to the boss, Arsenal are ready to give everything.