Arteta Focused and Fearless Ahead of Arsenal’s Crucial Clash with Real Madrid
EloEsi Score | Published 14 days ago on April 16, 2025
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta addressed the media ahead of his side’s highly anticipated second leg Champions League quarter-final showdown against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu, radiating calm determination as his team looks to protect — and build on — a commanding 3-0 lead.
With the Bernabéu’s historic aura and Madrid’s notorious “comeback” DNA dominating headlines in Spain, Arteta remained unfazed, repeating the mantra of control, belief, and bravery. “Our mindset is to win the game, not to protect the score,” said Arteta. “We will approach it the same way we did in London, with the same courage and intention to dominate.”
Team News: Key Boosts and Absences
Arteta confirmed a welcome boost to the squad, with Ben White returning to training and available for selection. Thomas Partey is also fit, despite a knock that forced him off in the previous game. However, Jorginho remains unavailable following a weekend incident, with Arteta expressing support for the midfielder.
“Ben trained today, he’ll be in the squad. Thomas felt good in recent days. Jorgi isn’t with us, unfortunately. Our thoughts are with him,” he stated.
Blocking the “Noise”
Much of the press conference was filled with questions about Madrid’s famed "remontada" (comeback) spirit — something Arteta acknowledged but didn’t allow to overshadow his team’s narrative.
“There’s admiration for what they’ve done in Europe. But our story is different,” he said. “What we’ve done all season gives me confidence. We’ve shown resilience in difficult contexts. Now we have to prove it again — on the pitch.”
Arteta emphasized the importance of controlling emotions in a game likely to be filled with intensity from the stands and on the field. “The emotional aspect is massive. Madrid are trying to take the game where they want emotionally — we need to keep it where we want.”
Creating Their Own History
For Arteta, this tie isn’t just a game — it’s a defining moment in Arsenal’s European journey. The Gunners are aiming to reach only their third Champions League semi-final in club history, and Arteta has instilled a sense of legacy in his squad.
“To create history, you need to be excited about it, prepared for it, and convinced that you can do it,” he said. “Last year gave us a taste. This year, we want more.”
He dismissed any suggestion of fear among his players. “I haven’t seen fear. I’ve seen focus. They’re ready.”
Big Moments and Big Players
One such player is Declan Rice, who stole the spotlight with two free-kick goals in the first leg. Arteta confirmed that Rice has continued to practice set-pieces this week and is becoming a more confident attacking force.
“He’s creating his own story,” Arteta said. “The way he did it — twice — was very rare. Now he believes, and when you believe, it happens more often.”
Facing the Pressure with Passion
When asked if this might be the biggest match of his managerial career, Arteta didn't hesitate. “I’m ready to play. I love this job, and these are the games you live for. If I had to choose one scenario to live through as a coach, it would be this.”
Final Message: Stay Bold
Despite the high stakes, Arteta’s final message to his players is simple: stay bold.
“We play to win. That’s when we’re at our best. We know what they want to do — take the game into chaos. But if we stay in control and brave, we’ll be in the semi-finals.”
With a commanding lead and a clear mindset, Arsenal head into one of the most significant nights in their modern history. Madrid may believe in comebacks — but Arteta’s Arsenal are writing a different kind of story.
For more pre-match coverage, player ratings, and post-game analysis, stay tuned to EloEsi Score.