Mikel Arteta has turned Arsenal into a team that can beat absolutely anyone.
That is a huge change compared to the years before he took over, when the Gunners often struggled against Europe’s elite sides. Now, they are not just competing with them; they are beating them.
Since the start of last season, Arsenal have taken down the likes of Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid. That shows they have the quality and belief to do it again.
This time, there could be an added motivation – the chance to get revenge for Arsene Wenger.
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Mikel Arteta could get revenge for Arsene Wenger if Arsenal face Atletico Madrid in Champions League semi-final
Wenger’s final season at Arsenal ended in heartbreak back in 2018.
The legendary Frenchman had the chance to win the Europa League in his final year, which would have been the perfect ending to his 22-year spell.
However, Atletico Madrid knocked Arsenal out in the semi-finals before going on to win the competition by beating Marseille in the final.
That defeat meant Wenger left the club without a trophy in his final season.
Now, eight years later, Arsenal could face Atletico again in an even bigger semi-final – in the Champions League.
The Gunners hold a 1-0 advantage over Sporting CP, while Atletico are leading their tie 2-0 against Barcelona. That makes a meeting between Mikel Arteta and Diego Simeone very likely.
Arsenal have already hammered Atleti 4-0 this season. If Arteta can do it again in the semi-final, it would be the perfect revenge for Wenger.
Arsenal also have unfinished business with Barcelona
There is still a possibility that Barcelona could make it through instead of Atletico Madrid. The Catalans are more than capable of overturning their two-goal deficit.
If that happens, Arsenal would once again be facing a team that has caused them pain in the past.
The 2006 Champions League final in Paris remains one of the most disappointing nights in the club’s history, while Lionel Messi hurt the Gunners a few times later on as well.
That is why the Gunners have a score to settle with the Catalans, and they could get an opportunity in the semi-final.
Be honest: How many goals do you think Arsenal will score against Barcelona in the Champions League?
Micah Richards has already suggested that Arsenal would destroy Barcelona’s high line, which is encouraging ahead of a potential clash.
It remains to be seen who will make it through, but Arsenal need to finish their job against Sporting CP at the Emirates first.
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