Arteta candidly discussed three topics after Arsenal reached the UCL semifinals and spoke about their next opponent.
On 16 Apr 2026 GMT+7, Mikel Arteta, manager of Premier League leaders Arsenal, gave an interview after the UEFA Champions League 2025-26 quarterfinal second leg, where Arsenal hosted Sporting Lisbon, second in the Portuguese league, and drew 0-0.
This result meant Arsenal won 1-0 on aggregate over two legs, advancing to the UCL semifinals for the second consecutive year. Mikel Arteta matched Arsène Wenger's record for the number of semifinal appearances, but the Spanish head coach achieved this in just 7 years, while the Arsenal legend did so over 22 seasons.
Mikel Arteta spoke about reaching the UEFA Champions League semifinals: "This is a very significant moment. It's the first time in our 140-year history that we have reached the semifinals two years in a row. Being one of the final four teams is very special. You have to earn it through hard work. I want to thank all the players."
"I think in the last 15-20 minutes we controlled the game very well. We set up effectively in the attacking third, remained composed, and managed the tempo well, except for the final moments. Overall, it was a great night. I'm happy for everyone on the team."
The Arsenal coach talked about how he helped his team believe in their ability to win: "It’s about taking the next step. We're taking a step that hasn't happened at this club in 140 years. The players deserve credit for what they are achieving. What I admire most is their determination after the defeat here to Bournemouth."
"They sat down to talk, analyzed, discussed openly, and took action. In the end, you have to show it on the pitch. We can talk in the dressing room, we can say good things, but we have to put those words into practice—and we did tonight."
Arteta concluded by mentioning Atletico Madrid, Arsenal’s next opponent: "I watched them play yesterday. That stadium is very special. This is the moment we want to experience together as a team now. So let's enjoy tonight. Tomorrow, we'll start preparing for the weekend and then think about that."