Arsenal's UCL Ambitions: Arteta's Honest Take on Pressure, Squad Depth, and Odegaard's Absence

Arsenal's Mikel Arteta Sets Sights High, Acknowledges UCL Challenges & Odegaard Blow

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has addressed the growing expectations surrounding the club's Champions League campaign this season, admitting the ultimate aim is to win the competition, but acknowledging the long and challenging road ahead.

Speaking ahead of Arsenal's opening group stage match, Arteta emphasized the fine margins that separate success and failure in the Champions League. He highlighted the importance of having a fully fit squad at crucial moments and the need for luck and decisive action

"That's the aim in the beginning," Arteta stated, referring to winning the Champions League. "But we all know that uh it's going to be a really long journey. Um the margins in this competition are super small and uh and you have to be at your very best from day one to give yourself the best possible chance."

Arteta pointed to Arsenal's experience last season, reaching the semi-finals, as a valuable learning curve. "We are good enough that we can compete against any opposition on the day... two things have to go your way. You need to have a fully squad available...and then as well when the ball has to go in the right moment." He also admitted the semi-final defeat still stings, motivating him to improve the squad's depth and resilience. He recalled instances where Arsenal only had eight or nine fit players in training, making it extremely difficult to compete at the highest level.

However, in a blow to Arsenal's chances, Arteta confirmed that captain Martin Odegaard will miss the opening match. While he didn't elaborate on the reason for Odegaard's absence, it will undoubtedly be a challenge for the Gunners.

When asked about the pressure of managing a club with Arsenal's history, particularly given their lack of Champions League titles, Arteta embraced the challenge. "That tells you with our long history how difficult it is because uh we haven't won it yet. And uh and that's the opportunity. That's how I see it."

He added, "The pressure is the opportunity that thrives. that energy, that willingness to be better every single day to make decisions that are um in that direction."

Arteta concluded by emphasizing the team's desire to improve and compete against any opponent. He also mentioned the support of his family, with many of them attending the upcoming match

Sky Sports News