Arsenal`s winger Bukayo Saka has sent a strong message to Real Madrid before their Champions League quarter-final match tonight, stating, “You should fear us.”
The Gunners have a formidable home record in the competition, remaining undefeated in their last ten games at the Emirates, with eight victories.
Manager Mikel Arteta is calling upon the supporters to create a vibrant atmosphere to put pressure on Real Madrid`s key players like Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham.
When asked if Real Madrid should be concerned about facing Arsenal, Saka, who has recovered from injury, confidently replied: “Yes, absolutely. Our Champions League home record speaks for itself. We haven`t lost at home in the last two seasons in this competition.
“I believe Real Madrid is aware of this and they need to be prepared because we are very strong at home.”
He added, “It’s Real Madrid, and we respect their history, but in football, anything is possible.”
Arsenal aims to make history by defeating Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid, who are 15-time Champions League winners. Real Madrid recently suffered a 2-1 defeat to Valencia in LaLiga.
Arteta urged the Emirates Stadium crowd to generate an incredible atmosphere to support the team in this crucial first leg.
“I encourage everyone to arrive early for the warm-up and help create those memorable nights that we haven`t experienced enough at the Emirates,” said Arteta.
“We need our fans to be with us, supporting every play. A special atmosphere in our home stadium is essential.”
This marks Arsenal`s first appearance in the Champions League quarter-finals in 15 years.
Arteta emphasized the significance of the game, saying, “This is undoubtedly the biggest night in my career.”
“It’s a fantastic chance to build our own legacy.
“The excitement surrounding the club and the importance of this match are immense. This is exactly where we aspire to be.”
“I am completely confident in our readiness to win and overcome them. This is the winning mentality I want to instill.”
Arsenal will play without Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel, and Riccardo Calafiori. However, Saka is fit to start after recovering from a hamstring injury.
Saka also hinted at his commitment to Arsenal, suggesting he is likely to sign a new contract.
The 23-year-old England international, whose contract has two years remaining, stated: “I want to win, and I want to achieve it wearing this Arsenal badge. The fans know how much I love them, and I feel their love in return.”
“I am very happy here.
“Wearing an Arsenal shirt in this game will probably be the highlight of my career.”
“I couldn`t have hoped for a better time to return to the team. I have no doubt the fans will be fully energized.
“This is definitely a match I wanted to be part of. There were many discussions with my physios about getting fit for this game.
“I’ve worked hard for months to be ready. Now we are here, and I am excited.”
The last Champions League encounter between Arsenal and Real Madrid was in 2006, when Saka was only four years old.
In that first leg, Thierry Henry scored a memorable solo goal at the Bernabeu, followed by a goalless draw at Highbury, sending Arsenal through.
Arsenal then progressed past Juventus and Villarreal to reach the final, where they were defeated 2-1 by Barcelona in Paris.
Saka dreams of having a similar defining moment, inspired by club legend Thierry Henry, with whom he often discusses football.
He said: “We aim to create our own history, but a moment like that would be incredible.”
“The biggest takeaway from my conversations with Thierry is his unwavering self-confidence.
“He also gives me specific advice on game situations and his perspective on the game. His immense confidence is what I admire most.”
“He truly believed that when he was on the field, no one could stop him.
“With that self-belief, he dominated the league. That’s what I find most impressive about him.”
