Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta expressed his confidence in the team’s ability to handle any opposition after their 2-1 victory at Girona on Wednesday, which secured their spot in the Champions League last 16. Despite a much-rotated side, the Gunners overcame a first-half deficit, with goals from Jorginho and 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri, who netted the decisive goal after Arnaut Danjuma’s opener for Girona.
Arteta praised his side’s resilience, reflecting on their consistency in the competition, despite the challenges they faced. “Winning in this competition is very demanding, but overall the team has been very consistent, regardless of all the issues they have had to face,” said Arteta. “This will hopefully breed more belief in that dressing room that we are a good team, and we can face anyone and still perform and win games.”
The win ensured Arsenal’s direct qualification to the last 16 of the Champions League, avoiding the play-off phase for the first time this season. They will now face one of Juventus, AC Milan, Feyenoord, or PSV Eindhoven in the next round.
In goal for Arsenal, 35-year-old Neto made his debut, filling in for the injured first-choice goalkeeper David Raya. Although Neto made an error in the lead-up to Girona’s opening goal, Arteta still had faith in his veteran goalkeeper, who was called into action due to Raya’s injury ahead of a crucial Premier League clash against Manchester City on Sunday.
Nwaneri, who led the line for Arsenal in a more advanced role, was instrumental in the win, scoring a brilliant goal to seal the victory. Teammate Mikel Merino hailed the teenager’s performance, describing him as “ruthless” and “fearless” on the pitch. Arteta was equally impressed with Nwaneri’s display, particularly considering it was his Champions League debut. “His influence, his composure on the ball, and how aggressive he is when he gets it, it’s impressive,” Arteta commented.
Arsenal has been linked with a move for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins to strengthen their attack in light of Gabriel Jesus’ injury, but Arteta declined to comment on transfer rumors. “I can’t talk about any of that,” Arteta said, emphasizing his confidence in the club’s efforts to improve. “Let’s see what happens.”
With their Champions League progression secured and the Premier League title race heating up, Arteta’s side is determined to keep up the momentum as they prepare for their upcoming match against Manchester City.
