Mikel Arteta urges Arsenal supporters to appreciate rather than critique
LONDON — Mikel Arteta has encouraged Arsenal supporters to “appreciate our current position” following their advancement to the Champions League semifinals amidst criticism of their recent performances.
The Gunners played to a 0-0 stalemate against Sporting CP on Wednesday, securing their place in the final four and setting up a matchup with Atlético Madrid.
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This marks the first occasion in the club’s history that they have reached back-to-back semifinals in Europe’s top club tournament, although they managed only one shot on target and had to depend on their determination to achieve a 1-0 aggregate victory.
Arsenal currently leads the Premier League but faces ongoing doubts regarding their capability to end a six-year trophy drought after losing the Carabao Cup Final to Manchester City and being eliminated from the FA Cup by Championship side Southampton.
The Gunners have yet to secure a Champions League title and are striving to claim the Premier League trophy for the first time in 22 years.
Arteta referenced the Amazon “All or Nothing” documentary, which chronicled the team during the 2021-22 season, suggesting that there has been an excessive backlash against his squad following a challenging period.
“I wish we were filming the Arsenal documentary this season, and you could capture the last 48 hours and understand everything that has been said [about us], but [then] we watch the series in July, and we have to reflect on where Arsenal stands,” he stated.
“I believe most of us would say they are in the bottom three [based on the criticism]. So what are we discussing, everyone? Please, enjoy our status as a club.
“If someone chooses not to, that’s their decision. We are having a great time, and I feel immense gratitude for what the players are accomplishing and for our supporters, so thank you.”
Arteta disclosed that Declan Rice exceeded expectations by playing the entire match against Sporting despite missing training the previous day.
“Declan was exhausted yesterday,” Arteta remarked. “He had no chance of playing today, he wasn’t feeling well at all, yet he played 94 minutes at his current level.
“Every single player is giving their all to contribute and perform at their best, and I truly appreciate that from the team.”
Noni Madueke will require evaluation ahead of Sunday’s significant match against City — who are six points behind Arsenal but have a game in hand — after being substituted on Wednesday due to a knee issue.
