Arteta Declares Arsenal Unfazed by Domestic Challenges Ahead of European Commitment

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has indicated that there are no heightened expectations or added pressure for the club to excel in the Champions League, despite their current troubles in the Premier League. This statement came on Tuesday ahead of their last-16 second leg clash against PSV Eindhoven.

In the first leg, Arsenal secured a resounding 7-1 victory against PSV, all but assuring their place in the quarter-finals.

However, their league performances have been far from encouraging, with a streak of three games without a win leaving them 15 points behind league leaders Liverpool, albeit with a game in hand.

They have also faced elimination from both the FA Cup and League Cup.

When asked if the Champions League was their sole realistic opportunity for silverware this season, Arteta responded: “It’s a competition that we are enthusiastic about. We bring a lot of energy and we’re showing consistency.”

“Winning tomorrow would put us in a very strong position, that’s the reality. It’s not about adding pressure; it’s about understanding where we are and what we aspire to achieve.”

“We are acutely aware that this football club has high expectations to perform at the top level and secure trophies. That’s just the way it is.”

In the next month’s quarter-finals, Arsenal could potentially face reigning champions Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid.

“From the moment the draws were made, we’ve definitely kept an eye on the other teams,” Arteta remarked.

“We recognise their quality, and naturally, you think ‘what if we meet them?’ However, we have to earn the right to be in that position first.”

The Spanish coach also mentioned the possibility of fielding some of Arsenal’s younger talents against PSV, stating: “We’ve integrated them whenever possible.”

“It’s always fantastic because they’ve contributed immensely to the team’s dynamics.

“Being able to provide those players with minutes is a way of showing our gratitude for their valuable contributions.”