Viktor Gyökeres has called on an inspired Arsenal to seize an “incredible opportunity” as they aim for the club’s first Champions League title.
Arsenal stands just one match away from their first final in the competition in two decades, having never lifted the prestigious European trophy.
Arsenal will face Atlético Madrid for the second leg of their semifinal, with the aggregate score level at 1-1.
In the first leg, Gyökeres gave Arsenal the lead with a penalty in Spain, which was later equalized by Julián Álvarez, also from the penalty spot.
Gyökeres further boosted the team’s morale by scoring twice in their convincing victory over Fulham at the Emirates Stadium last weekend, bringing his season total to 21 goals as they pursue their first Premier League title since 2004.
Ahead of the crucial match in north London, he stated: “The atmosphere in the dressing room is great. We’re all really excited for the upcoming games, so we need to prepare thoroughly to transmit that energy onto the field. We are in this position for a reason; our performance has been strong throughout the season. However, in these crucial matches, we need to perform well to finish the job. What we have achieved so far is amazing, but we need to take it further.”
“Playing this game at home is fantastic. We understand the stakes and have an incredible chance to create a memorable game tomorrow and share it with our fans. We must deliver on the pitch, and with their tremendous support, it could be an unforgettable night.”
Gyökeres’ manager at Arsenal echoed his sentiments, emphasizing that the Gunners must capitalize on this moment to progress as a team. “Our fans have been waiting for a long time for this kind of night. It’s an extraordinary event that’s about to take place,” said Mikel Arteta. “Let’s seize it. You can commit to working every day with the goal of establishing this club among the best in Europe, but now we have to take that next step. Let’s experience this together and make it happen.”
After transferring for £64 million from Sporting Lisbon, Gyökeres initially struggled, scoring just three goals in his first 11 matches and experiencing a 10-game drought without a goal from open play. However, he has recently found his scoring form, netting five times in his last eight games, including a standout performance against Fulham.
Gyökeres added: “It’s all about perseverance in football, regardless of setbacks. You have to keep pushing through. Many matches lie ahead, and there will be challenges throughout the season that you must confront head-on, striving to perform better in the next game. That’s a vital aspect of the game. I’ve gone through scoring streaks before, and I want to replicate that. Confidence enhances every player’s performance.”
Currently, Arsenal remains unbeaten in the League Phase of the Champions League and holds a six-point lead over Manchester City in the Premier League, with Pep Guardiola’s team set to play their first of two games in hand against Everton on Monday.
This report includes information from PA.