Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, has revealed why his team remains the only Premier League side currently participating in the Champions League.
Arsenal has moved to the Champions League semi-finals, where they will face Atletico Madrid, following a goalless draw with Sporting CP at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday evening.
The focus has shifted back to the Premier League, where Arsenal will meet Manchester City on Sunday in a game that will have a huge impact on the fate of this season’s championship.
Arteta noted that his team is the only English club still in the competition due to their ability to overcome the hurdles given by a rigorous schedule.
“This is why we are the only English team left in the competition; the league and its schedule take a toll on you, making it very challenging to achieve what we have accomplished,” Arteta told reporters after the encounter, which saw Arsenal put on another poor effort.
“We are not without flaws; we clearly need to improve in certain areas, which we acknowledge, but there is merit in what these players have accomplished, and they truly deserve it.”
“Declan (Rice) was fatigued yesterday. He had no opportunity to play today; he was not feeling well at all, yet he managed to play 94 minutes at his usual level.
“Piero [Hincapie] is in the same situation; every single player is giving their utmost to contribute and perform at their best, and I sincerely appreciate that from the team.”