Sports 16 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Arteta Urges Arsenal Fans to Savor Champions League Success Amid Criticism
Mikel Arteta has called on Arsenal supporters to appreciate the team's historic back-to-back Champions League semi-final appearances rather than focusing on recent critiques. The Gunners advanced with a 0-0 draw against Sporting CP, setting up a clash with Atletico Madrid. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/arteta-tells-arsenal-fans-to-enjoy-not-criticise-5425488
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has encouraged fans to celebrate the club’s achievements after securing a place in the Champions League semi-finals for the second consecutive year, a first in the club’s history.
The team drew 0-0 at home against Sporting CP on Wednesday, clinching a 1-0 aggregate victory despite managing just one shot on target. This resilient performance advanced them to face Atletico Madrid, with the first leg in Spain in two weeks and the return at home on May 5.
Arteta addressed ongoing criticism of Arsenal’s form, referencing the Amazon ‘All or Nothing’ documentary from the 2021-22 season. He suggested that recent backlash has been overblown, imagining how the narrative would look if filmed now. ‘Please, enjoy where we are as a club,’ he pleaded, expressing gratitude to players and supporters.
Arsenal top the Premier League and are chasing their first title in 22 years, alongside a long-awaited Champions League triumph, despite recent cup disappointments.
Arteta praised midfielder Declan Rice for playing the full 94 minutes against Sporting despite being unfit and missing training the previous day. Meanwhile, Noni Madueke faces a fitness check ahead of Sunday’s key clash with Manchester City.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)