“Despite Our Challenges…”: Mikel Arteta Issues Strong Warning Following Arsenal’s Champions League Round of 16 Qualification
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed confidence in his team’s ability to face any opponent after securing direct qualification to the Champions League Round of 16 with a 2-1 victory over Girona on Wednesday. Goals from Jorginho and Ethan Nwaneri turned the game around after Arnaut Danjuma’s opener for the hosts. By bypassing the newly introduced play-off stage, Arsenal will meet Juventus, AC Milan, Feyenoord, or PSV Eindhoven in the next round.
“Winning in this competition is extremely demanding, but the team has shown remarkable consistency despite the challenges they’ve faced,” Arteta told reporters after their fourth straight European win.
He added, “(Hopefully this breeds) more belief in that dressing room that we are a strong side, capable of competing against anyone and winning matches.”
Goalkeeper Neto made his Arsenal debut, stepping in for injured first-choice David Raya. Arteta confirmed Raya’s absence, saying, “He couldn’t play; he’s injured,” ahead of Sunday’s crucial Premier League clash against Manchester City.
Neto, on loan from Bournemouth, was caught out of position for Girona’s goal, allowing Danjuma to score from long range.
Seventeen-year-old Ethan Nwaneri, leading Arsenal’s attack, sealed the win with a composed finish. Midfielder Mikel Merino praised the youngster, telling TNT Sports, “He’s ruthless and fearless on the pitch. His potential is immense, and we’re here to help him reach it.”
Arteta echoed the sentiment, praising Nwaneri’s impactful performance. “I’m really impressed — starting a Champions League game and scoring such an important goal shows his composure, aggression, and influence on the ball,” he said.
With Gabriel Jesus sidelined due to injury, Arsenal have been linked to Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, but Arteta remained tight-lipped about transfer rumors.
“I can’t comment on that,” he said. “What I do know is that we have an amazing club where people are constantly working to improve. Let’s see what happens.”
