With history within touching distance, Mikel Arteta has urged Arsenal fans to help turn the Emirates into a fortress as the Gunners prepare to host Paris Saint-Germain in their first Champions League semi-final since 2009.
Arsenal’s European run has already been described as a “beautiful story” by Arteta, but the Spaniard made it clear his side are chasing something far greater. Tuesday night’s clash with PSG, he says, is “one of the biggest games the Emirates Stadium has seen.”
It’s been nearly two decades since Arsenal last reached a Champions League final. Their defeat to Barcelona in 2006 under Arsène Wenger remains a painful memory, but this group is writing its own chapter fueled by belief, resilience, and a deep connection with the club’s past.
After dispatching holders Real Madrid 5-1 on aggregate and dominating PSG 2-0 earlier in the group stage, Arsenal’s European form has soared in contrast to their stuttering Premier League campaign. Despite injuries to Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard and Ben White, the Gunners have powered through with a blend of grit and flair.
“We are making history,” said Arteta. “It’s a beautiful story right now but we want much more.” With Mikel Merino and White returning to training, the squad looks stronger heading into their biggest night in years.
Arteta’s final rallying cry was aimed at the fans. “Bring your boots, your shorts and T-shirt and let’s play every ball together,” he declared. If Arsenal are to take another giant step toward European glory, the Emirates must erupt like never before.
