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Mikel Arteta has called on his Arsenal players to seize the “opportunity of a lifetime” and etch their names into club folklore as they prepare to face Paris Saint-Germain in their first Champions League semi-final in 16 years.
The Gunners have never lifted Europe’s most prestigious club trophy, but Arteta insists his side will not be burdened by history. Instead, he believes the electric atmosphere at Emirates Stadium can help propel them into next month’s final.
“We are making history — it’s a beautiful story right now, but we want much more,” said Arteta. “You feel it from the people who have worked here for many, many years — it shows how unique and beautiful this moment is. It’s the greatest competition for any European club, and we want to reach the final.”
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He added: “It’s an incredible opportunity. We are here to make history, we are very close, and now we have to make it happen. It’s about who we are and how much we want it.”
Well, this is it. It’s been 19 years since Arsenal last won a Champions League semi-final.
Tomorrow the Gunners have the chance to do it again.
Mikel Arteta, you brought us back. Now it’s time to get the job done.
Mikel Arteta: “We are making history but we want much more.”… pic.twitter.com/PGMFOrXscN
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) April 28, 2025
Arsenal secured their semi-final place after a thrilling win over Real Madrid at the Emirates in the last round, and Arteta is counting on the home crowd to make a similar impact against PSG. While injuries and suspensions have derailed their Premier League title push, Arteta is determined to ensure the season ends on a high.
“You can sense the energy and enthusiasm,” he said. “It’s probably one of the biggest games the Emirates has seen since it was built. We are full of energy, full of excitement, and we can’t wait to play.”
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Reflecting on the challenges his team has overcome this season, Arteta praised the resilience of his squad: “The fact we are one of the four best teams in Europe shows the mindset, the mentality, and how much we want this.”
Looking ahead to the semi-final showdown, he urged his players to embrace the moment: “Tomorrow, I want more — much more. I told them: ‘Bring your boots, your shorts, and your shirts — and play every ball together.’
“If we want to do something special, the Emirates must be a fortress like never before. We hope everyone who comes, and everyone watching, brings their energy.”
Arteta dismissed any notion that the club’s past failures in Europe would weigh them down: “The past is irrelevant. We can learn from it, but tomorrow is about reaching our limits and making it happen.”
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