Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has called on his players to show “no fear, pure fire” as they head into a defining week of their season.
The Gunners are preparing for a crucial UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg against Sporting CP, having secured a 1-0 advantage in Lisbon.
Arteta’s side will then face Manchester City in a potentially decisive clash in the Premier League title race.
Despite leading the table, Arsenal’s recent form has raised concerns, with just one win in their last four matches across all competitions.
Speaking ahead of the European tie, Arteta urged both players and fans to embrace the moment with intensity and belief.
He described the opportunity as “unbelievable,” stressing his determination to deliver success for the club after years without major silverware.
Arsenal last lifted a trophy in 2020, winning the FA Cup during his debut season in charge. Recent defeats have dented Arsenal’s hopes of a historic quadruple.
They lost the EFL Cup final to Manchester City, were knocked out of the FA Cup by Championship side Southampton, and suffered a shock league defeat at home to Bournemouth.
Their lead at the top of the Premier League has now been cut to six points, with City holding a game in hand.
Forward Eberechi Eze backed his manager’s passionate message, saying Arteta’s energy has spread throughout the squad.
He insisted that external criticism would not distract the team, emphasizing that their focus remains firmly on their performances on the pitch.
However, Arsenal face injury concerns ahead of the Sporting clash, with Declan Rice among several players who missed training.
Captain Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, Jurrien Timber, and Riccardo Calafiori were also absent, though Arteta remains hopeful some could return.
He confirmed Saka is dealing with an Achilles issue but suggested the winger’s recovery is progressing and may only sideline him for a matter of days rather than weeks.
