Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta believes that the Luis Enrique-managed Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) side is exceptional and dominant, but insists that the Gunners can draw confidence from their recent dramatic victory over Leicester City.
As the Arsenal squad trained in Hertfordshire yesterday ahead of their crucial Champions League fixture against PSG, the sense of urgency was palpable. Arteta emphasized that their last-gasp 4-2 win against Leicester City, where the Gunners scored twice in injury time, will be pivotal in shaping the character and mental resilience of his team as they prepare for Tuesday’s showdown.
By clinching a victory at the very last moments of the match, Arsenal moved up to third place in the Premier League standings, trailing just a single point behind current leaders Liverpool. This form of dramatic winning, according to Arteta, can be instrumental in their future performances, particularly in high-stakes games like the upcoming one against PSG.
Arsenal’s quest for their first win of the Champions League league-phase this season saw a rocky start, having been held to a goalless draw by Atalanta. Heading into Tuesday’s fixture at the Emirates, the Gunners are keen on turning their fortunes around and securing those much-needed points against the French champions.
At a press conference prior to the match, Arteta was queried about the significance of emerging victorious from various circumstances—whether by controlling the game throughout or through dramatic last-minute goals. “It shapes the character and the body of the team, giving them the certainty that they can win in any context and adapt to very different situations during the matches,” Arteta explained. He stressed the importance of flexibility and resilience, emphasizing that the Champions League demands teams to be proficient in all phases of play, not just full-game dominance.
Arteta acknowledged the upcoming challenge against PSG, noting that they are a formidable side under the stewardship of Luis Enrique. Reports have emerged suggesting that PSG will be without French forward Ousmane Dembele due to a disciplinary measure following a heated exchange with Enrique after their 3-1 victory over Rennes. French sports daily L’Equipe reported that this decision is in line with ensuring team discipline ahead of crucial fixtures.
Commenting on the absence of Dembele, Arteta said, “We’re going to prepare like we always do, considering every possibility. PSG has many other options to pose a threat.
.” He applauded the French side’s exceptional abilities, stating, “They’re really tough. They are exceptional and they dominate every phase of play. They have a very clear intention of how they want to dominate the game through the ball, and when they don’t have it, they want it straight back. They are really aggressive with it and they confront you.”
Arteta’s admiration for Luis Enrique is evident, having himself played for PSG as a young midfielder. He described Enrique as an incredible personality with immense energy and supportiveness, especially when working with young players. “What I love about him is wherever he’s been, as a player or a manager, his fingerprints are all over the place,” Arteta added, highlighting Enrique’s impactful and consistent career trajectory.
As the countdown to the high-stakes Champions League match continues, it’s clear that both teams are aware of the challenge ahead. Arsenal’s training session in Hertfordshire encapsulated the focus and intensity Arteta expects from his players as they gear up to host PSG at the Emirates.
For Arsenal, securing a victory against PSG would not only mark their first win in the Champions League group stage this season but also set a strong precedent for their performances in future fixtures. The Gunners have shown glimpses of their potential and ability to overcome adversity, illustrated by their thrilling win over Leicester City. However, maintaining this form against a dominant side like PSG will require them to be at their very best in every aspect of the game.
The anticipation is building as Arsenal aim to make their mark on the European stage. Arteta’s strategy and the players’ determination will be put to the test when they face one of the most formidable teams in European football today. All eyes will be on the Emirates to see if the Gunners can translate their Premier League resilience into Champions League success.
