'Bring your boots': Arteta calls for Arsenal's 12th man before historic Champions League showdown with PSG
Mikel Arteta passionately urged Arsenal fans to become the twelfth man, imploring them to "bring your boots" and create an unparalleled atmosphere for the Champions League semi-final first leg match against Paris Saint-Germain. This tie holds immense historical weight for both clubs, neither of whom have ever lifted the coveted trophy, fueling a burning desire from Arteta and his team to make history and seize this unique opportunity.
Speaking ahead of the historic Champions League semi-final first leg at the Emirates, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta conveyed a powerful message focused on collective effort and seizing a unique opportunity. He directly addressed the Arsenal supporters, urging them to actively participate in the matchday experience. His striking phrase, “Guys, bring your boots, bring your shorts, bring your T-shirts and let’s play every ball together” underscored his desire for a symbiotic relationship between the team and the stands.
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Spaniard stressed that the Emirates needed to be "something special, something that we haven’t seen," believing that generating intense energy from the crowd is vital. He referenced the "electric atmosphere" against Real Madrid as proof of its impact.
The historical weight
Arteta acknowledged the historical weight of the tie, particularly the fact that neither Arsenal nor Paris Saint-Germain have ever won the Champions League title. He stated that the lack of this trophy is "feelable" within the club, especially for long-serving personnel. He framed the current situation as "making history" and a "beautiful story," but stressed, "we want much more." The focus is firmly on the present, emphasizing the need to "earn the right to be in that final" by performing in the upcoming game. He urged his team to "take the opportunity and make it happen."
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Drawing confidence from recent results, Arteta highlighted the psychological boost gained from winning away at Real Madrid in the quarter-finals, calling it "probably the biggest test." He also took positives from Arsenal's earlier 2-0 home win against PSG this season, noting their "greater physicality" stood out.
Arteta believes at this semi-final stage, "the difference between the two teams is not big," and success hinges on "the mindset, the attitude and how we’re going to play the game." He stressed the importance of players being "convinced, to go on that pitch thinking we’re going to beat them." Generating collective energy, both on and off the pitch, is key to winning.
In terms of team news, Arsenal manager confirmed Ben White and Mikel Merino were available, but Thomas Partey was suspended, suggesting Merino might be needed in midfield. Arteta's overarching message was clear: this semi-final is a chance to break new ground for a club yearning for European glory, and the collective energy of the players and fans will be paramount in achieving it against a similarly ambitious PSG side also seeking their first Champions League crown.
