Mikel Arteta is basking in the glory after leading his team to the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the second consecutive season, marking the first time they have reached this stage for 15 years. This remarkable achievement comes after a six-year absence from Europe’s elite competition, and it’s a testament to the hard work and determination of both the players and the coaching staff.

The team's resurgence in the tournament has made waves as they are now among the last eight clubs standing, a feat not seen since before Arteta’s playing days at Arsenal. The atmosphere is electric in North London, and the manager is proud of how far they’ve come, revitalizing their historic status in European football.

Looking Ahead to the Next Challenge

Looking ahead, Arteta is already strategizing for their upcoming match against the legendary Real Madrid, a club that has dominated the tournament with 15 titles to their name. The Arsenal boss has called for an unforgettable atmosphere at the Emirates Stadium as they host Los Blancos for the first time in a competitive fixture. He emphasized the significance of making their home advantage count, stating: 'This is a unique opportunity and we need to seize it.'

Recent Performance and Team Morale

Reflecting on their recent performance, Arteta expressed satisfaction over securing their quarter-finals spot with a notable 2-2 draw against PSV Eindhoven. Showcasing depth and talent, he made seven changes to the lineup, owing to a dominant 7-1 victory in the previous leg. Notably, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Declan Rice found the back of the net, both assisted by Raheem Sterling, who was named man of the match for his exceptional contribution.

Aiming for Greater Heights

With ambition in their sights, Arteta reinforced his message: 'We are very happy to be here, but we want much more. Our players have shown they are capable of achieving greatness.' As the anticipation builds for the clash against a formidable opponent, Arsenal fans can expect fireworks as their team aims to write a new chapter in their European journey. The question on everyone’s lips: Can they go even further this season?