Mikel Arteta says he is determined to change Arsenal’s history in the UEFA Champions League by guiding the club to its first-ever title.
Despite being 13-time English champions, Arsenal have only reached the Champions League final once, losing 2-1 to Barcelona in 2006. They have also appeared in three semi-finals, including last season’s run that ended in defeat to eventual winners Paris Saint-Germain.
According to the Opta supercomputer, Arsenal have a 16% chance of winning the tournament, making them one of the frontrunners. Only Liverpool (20%) are rated higher among English clubs.
Arteta said Arsenal’s lack of success in Europe makes the challenge even more meaningful:
“That tells you how difficult it is because we haven’t won it yet. But that’s the opportunity. Pressure is what drives the energy and willingness to improve every day. Big clubs may try several times before winning, but this is what we want to change.”
Arsenal’s Champions League opener
Arsenal begin their campaign away at Athletic Bilbao on Tuesday, their first-ever competitive meeting with the Spanish side. The Gunners will be without Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz, Ben White, and Gabriel Jesus, all sidelined with injuries.
Across the last two Champions League editions, only Real Madrid (33 points) have collected more points in the group/league phase than Arsenal (32 points from 14 games).
Bilbao wary of Arsenal threat
Athletic Club, returning to the competition for the first time since 2014-15 under Ernesto Valverde, face a stern test.
Valverde praised Arsenal, saying:
“They are one of the favourites to win the Champions League thanks to their technical and tactical ability, and the winning spirit Arteta has instilled in them. We must be careful and take our chances, because Arsenal won’t be forgiving.”
