Mikel Arteta expects Arsenal to play like “beasts” against Atletico Madrid as they aim to reach the Champions League final for the first time since 2006.
Arteta’s side earned a 1-1 draw in the semi-final first leg in Madrid last week, putting them in position to finish the job at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday.
The Gunners have never won the Champions League, with their only final appearance ending in defeat against Barcelona 20 years ago.
After losing to Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals in 2025, Arteta said Arsenal are determined to go one step further this time.
“We will take to the pitch as beasts tomorrow and enjoy the moment and go for it,” he told reporters on Monday.
“I can’t wait. I feel the energy among the team and our supporters. This is the moment that we want to live together.
“We have worked hard as a club and as a team after 20 years to be in this position again. And we are so hungry to get through to that final.
“It is a feeling of huge excitement. So let’s push hard, because something amazing is going to happen.”
Arteta is boosted by the availability of captain Martin Odegaard after he missed Saturday’s win over Fulham in the Premier League.
German forward Kai Havertz is also in contention as he returns from two games out with a knee injury.
Premier League leaders Arsenal are searching for their first silverware since the 2020 FA Cup.
