Arteta rallies Arsenal after shock defeats ahead of Champions League clash

Manager Mikel Arteta has urged Arsenal FC to show resilience and character following a string of disappointing results, as they prepare for a crucial Champions League quarter-final against Sporting Lisbon.

The Gunners head into Tuesday’s clash reeling from a shock 2-1 defeat to Southampton FC in the FA Cup quarter-finals, coming just weeks after a 2-0 loss to Manchester City in the League Cup final.

The back-to-back defeats have ended Arsenal’s hopes of a historic quadruple and raised fresh concerns about their ability to secure silverware, with the club yet to win a trophy since the 2020 FA Cup.

Despite the setback, Arteta insisted his side remains mentally strong and capable of bouncing back at a critical stage of the season.

“In the season, you always have moments… this is the first moment that we have with a certain level of difficulty,” Arteta said.

“If this is a difficult period, I believe there are many others that are much more difficult, so let’s stand up and deliver like we’ve been doing all season.”

Arsenal still hold a commanding nine-point lead over second-placed Manchester City in the Premier League and are considered favourites heading into the European tie in Lisbon.

Arteta defended his players, praising their efforts throughout the campaign.

“I love my players… I’m going to defend them more than ever. Someone has to take responsibility — that’s me — and we have the most beautiful period of the season ahead of us,” he added.

The London club will also draw confidence from their previous 5-1 victory over Sporting during last season’s group stage.

Striker Viktor Gyökeres has emerged as a key figure in recent weeks, scoring against Southampton and delivering strong performances in key fixtures.

However, injury concerns could pose a challenge, with Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka both racing to regain fitness, while Gabriel Magalhães remains a doubt after picking up a knee injury.

Midfielder Christian Nørgaard urged the team to stay positive despite the recent slump.

“The message is to have positive body language… it’s fine to be frustrated, but we also have to look forward because there are so many big games coming up,” he said.

With their Premier League title push still on track and a place in the Champions League semi-finals at stake, Arsenal face a defining period that could shape their season.