Arsenal are set to play Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final stage. The first leg between the two teams will take place at The Emirates on April 8.
Los Blancos defeated Atletico Madrid via penalties in the round of 16 of the competition, while Arsenal defeated PSV Eindhoven 9-3 on aggregate.
Real Madrid can shift into a special gear in the UCL, and Mikel Arteta reckons it’s the team’s mentality that makes them special in the Champions League. Speaking to the media, the Gunners boss said:
Real Madrid are the kings of this competition, and not just because of history but because of what they continue to do on the pitch. This tie will demand our very best. So, come on—let’s go for it.
– Mikel Arteta
He added:
Real Madrid has a component, which is the emotional component. Then there’s the predictable part of what they normally do, and the absolutely unpredictable part, which are the moments.
– Mikel Arteta
Arteta further added that such a mental aspect of the game can’t be taught and comes from experience. It is the winning mentality that sets Los Blancos apart from other teams as well.
The Gunners, meanwhile, are set to miss a key player in Gabriel Magalhaes as the Brazilian needs surgery and has been ruled out for the remainder of the campaign.
Arteta claimed that Magalhaes is much more than what he brings to the team as a player. He pinpointed that the Brazilian’s leadership, presence, and personality make him special.
He said:
Gabi means more than what he offers during the game. His leadership, his presence, and his personality make him one of our key figures. But we’ve lost him and we must adapt. We’ll adjust and find another way to be effective.
– Mikel Arteta
The Latest Real Madrid News:
Real Madrid Aim To Land Arsenal Ace Using Trent Alexander-Arnold Approach
Real Madrid vs Valencia: Odds And Prediction For La Liga Clash
Real Madrid Standout Attracts Transfer Interest From Bournemouth And Benfica
Real Madrid vs Valencia: Official Squad Announced For La Liga Match
