Mikel Arteta, the head coach of Arsenal, expressed the ambitious dream of his players to clinch the club’s first-ever Champions League title at Wembley Stadium. Ahead of their much-anticipated return to the knockout stages against Porto, Arteta highlighted the significance of this aspiration.
It’s been a long wait for Arsenal, with their last appearance in the last 16 dating back seven years, and their last quarter-final berth occurring in 2010. Nevertheless, the team’s recent form has been remarkable, marked by 21 goals in five Premier League victories following a winter break.
The prospect of playing the final in their home city of London adds an extra layer of motivation. Arteta shared his sentiments during the pre-match press conference in Portugal, acknowledging the magnitude of the occasion.
“It would be incredible to experience lifting that cup in London on the 1st of June,” he remarked, emphasizing that while the dream is alive, there are significant challenges to overcome, starting with the upcoming match.
Watch Live Arsenal XI vs Porto Match
Despite lacking extensive Champions League experience within the squad, Arteta exuded confidence in their ability to compete with Europe’s elite. “It’s been seven years since we’ve been at this stage, and 14 years since we’ve progressed to the next round,” he noted.
The challenge ahead is clear, but Arteta highlighted the team’s enthusiasm, energy, and determination to prove themselves on the big stage.
Acknowledging the reality that most players haven’t had prior experience at this level, Arteta emphasized their collective desire and passion to showcase their worth. “We may lack experience, but we are fueled by enthusiasm and a burning desire to succeed,” he stated. As they gear up for the match, Arteta emphasized the team’s readiness to embrace the challenge with full belief and determination, aiming to demonstrate their quality on the pitch.
The biggest debate for Arteta was who to start upfront in Jesus’ absence. Leandro Trossard leads the line again after excelling as a false nine recently, with Kai Havertz staying in his midfield role.
Starting XI: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Kiwior, Rice, Odegaard, Havertz, Saka, Trossard, Martinelli
Subs: Ramsdale, Hein, Cedric, Heaven, Sweet, Elneny, Nwaneri, Smith Rowe, Vieira, Jorginho, Nelson, Nketiah
Time and date: 8pm GMT on Wednesday, February 21, 2024
Venue: Estadio do Dragao
TV channel: TNT Sports
Referee: Serdar Gözübüyük
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