Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has called on fans to unite and create an electric atmosphere as the Gunners host Paris Saint-Germain in a historic UEFA Champions League semi-final on Tuesday night. Kick-off at the Emirates Stadium is scheduled for 20:00 BST. After a powerful 5-1 win over Real Madrid in the quarter-finals, Arsenal now face PSG—a team they already beat in the group stage—as they aim for their first-ever Champions League title.
Arteta Urges Unity as Arsenal Chases First Champions League Title
Arsenal have reached their first Champions League semi-final since 2009 and are just two games away from a shot at European glory. Arteta, speaking ahead of the match, described the journey so far as a “wonderful chapter,” but stressed that the team “wants much more.”
“This is one of the biggest matches ever played at the Emirates,” he said. “We need every supporter to feel every moment and help turn our home into a fortress.”
Arsenal previously defeated PSG 2-0 in the group stage last October. Now, the stakes are much higher as they prepare to battle over two legs for a spot in the final.
Arsenal Overcame Injuries and Domestic Setbacks
Despite strong European performances, Arsenal’s Premier League form has dipped. Injuries to key players—like Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, Martin Ødegaard, and Ben White—hurt their domestic title challenge, helping Liverpool secure the trophy early.
But Arteta praised the squad’s determination and mentality.
“Making it this far shows how much fight we have,” he said. “It’s not just talent—it’s belief and heart.”
Arsenal impressed throughout the Champions League season, winning six of eight group matches and dominating PSV Eindhoven 9-3 on aggregate in the round of 16. Their quarter-final victory against defending champions Real Madrid only added to the belief that this year could be special.
Return of Key Players Boosts Arsenal’s Chances
Ahead of the semi-final, Arsenal received a welcome boost as both Mikel Merino and Ben White returned to training. Arteta hopes the team can build on the momentum of their 3-0 home win over Real Madrid by creating an even louder, more passionate crowd presence.
“Bring your shirts, bring your boots, bring your voices,” Arteta said. “Let’s play this match together.”
The Spanish coach is still seeking his first major European trophy with Arsenal, having previously lifted the FA Cup in 2020.
PSG Reinvented Themselves After Group Stage Setbacks
Paris Saint-Germain started their Champions League campaign poorly, winning just one of their first five group games. But under manager Luis Enrique, the French champions have made an impressive comeback.
“We are a different team now,” Enrique said. “Losing to Arsenal helped us grow. It forced us to adapt.”
Since their early struggles, PSG crushed Brest 10-0 on aggregate in the play-offs and eliminated Liverpool and Aston Villa in later rounds. Their run has surprised many, especially after losing star players like Kylian Mbappé, Lionel Messi, and Neymar in recent seasons.
Despite these exits, PSG remain hungry for their first-ever Champions League title.
Enrique Sees Similarities Between PSG and Arsenal
Ahead of the semi-final, Enrique spoke about the shared strengths between both teams.
“Arsenal play like we do—together as a unit, not depending on stars,” he said. “Both teams have dealt with injuries and setbacks but stayed true to their identity.”
PSG were recently crowned Ligue 1 champions once again, showing their continued dominance in France. Now, they aim to take the final step in Europe.
Arsenal’s Moment to Make History
For Arsenal, the semi-final marks a chance to achieve something no team in their history has done before—win the Champions League. The Gunners came closest in 2006 but lost to Barcelona in the final. That memory still lingers for fans and former players alike.