Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirms absence for Atletico Madrid: ‘Go out and grab it’

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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirms absence for Atletico Madrid: ‘Go out and grab it’

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirms absence for Atletico Madrid: ‘Go out and grab it’

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has told his side to ‘go out and grab it’ against Atletico Madrid in the second leg of the semi-final of the Champions League on Tuesday night. The Basque manager also...

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirms absence for Atletico Madrid: ‘Go out and grab it’

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has told his side to ‘go out and grab it’ against Atletico Madrid in the second leg of the semi-final of the Champions League on Tuesday night. The Basque manager also...

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has issued a stirring rallying cry to his players ahead of Tuesday night’s Champions League semi-final second leg against Atletico Madrid: "Go out and grab it." With the tie finely poised at 1-1 after the first leg, the Basque boss knows his side must seize the moment at the Emirates Stadium.

Arteta confirmed that defender Jurrien Timber will watch from the stands alongside Mikel Merino, but there’s a major boost for the Gunners as captain Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz are both available. Havertz missed the first leg through injury, but his return adds firepower to Arsenal’s attack.

"Yes, they’re all available. Timber is out, but Odegaard and Havertz are available. We’ve increased our options and our ability to play different matches. It’s great news for us that they’re available," Arteta told Diario AS on Monday evening.

The excitement is palpable as Arsenal prepare for their first Champions League semi-final in 20 years. "I can’t wait. I feel the energy of the team, of everyone… These are the kinds of moments we want to experience together. We’ve earned this position after 20 years. We’re hungry to give it our all tomorrow," Arteta added.

While Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has emphasized the need for his side to manage their emotions, Arteta is taking a different approach—urging his team to channel their hunger and aggression. "Go and grab it. When you have an opportunity like this, you have to be ready to seize it. The team is going to give it their all from the first minute and make it happen."

Arteta made it clear he wants no regrets after the final whistle. "That’s the big word I don’t like on a night like this. It’s about what we want and what we’re willing to do. What makes me believe is what I see every day. These players have given me reasons to believe and trust them, to think it’s possible and we can do it. This is football, and tomorrow we’ll have to prove it in the match."

The Arsenal boss also hinted at the tactical chess match ahead, expecting the game to feature contrasting phases similar to the first leg. "My conversations are about getting the best possible preparation for the match. We know how many different games we’ll be playing tomorrow within the match itself. We have to be ready, prepared. Great quality, great intensity—that’s what it will take."

For Arsenal fans, this is a night to dream. After two decades away from Europe’s biggest stage at this level, the Gunners are on the verge of something special. With key players back and a manager who believes, all eyes will be on the Emirates as Arsenal look to write a new chapter in their storied history.

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