Getty

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 14: Mikel Arteta, Manager of Arsenal, celebrates following the team's victory in the Premier League match between Arsenal and Everton at Emirates Stadium on March 14, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Mikel Arteta has made his message clear before Arsenal’s biggest match in years. Arsenal face Atlético Madrid in the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg with the tie level at 1-1.

The match will be played at Emirates Stadium, where a win will send Arsenal into their first final since 2006.

Arteta confirmed that Kai Havertz, Martin Ødegaard, and Jurrien Timber are available for selection. Arsenal vs Atlético Madrid has now become the focus, with fans preparing for a decisive night. The team needs one result to reach the Champions League final.

Arsenal vs Atlético Madrid Preview And Team News Before the Semi-Final

Arteta confirmed key returns ahead of the Arsenal vs Atlético Madrid clash. “They’re available, and the squad for both of them.”

He explained the importance of having options. “We need options, we need the capacity to play different games, whether it’s from the start or after. So it’s really, really good news for us to have them both back.”

This Arsenal vs Atlético Madrid preview highlights the timing of those returns. The availability of Havertz and Ødegaard gives Arsenal more control in attack and midfield.

Arteta described the moment clearly. “I can’t wait,” he said. “I feel the energy in and amongst the team, our supporters.”

The Arsenal Champions League semi-final now carries full weight. “This is the moment that we want to live together. We have a lot of work as a club, as a team, after 20 years to be in this position again.”

Arsenal vs Atlético Madrid Semi-Final Boost From Saka Form And Squad Readiness

Bukayo Saka comes into the Arsenal vs Atlético Madrid semi-final in strong form. His recent display showed his sharpness ahead of this match. Arteta spoke directly about Bukayo Saka’s form.

“That’s what we need when we arrive at this stage of the competition. For the players not only to be available, but to be in top condition to perform and make a difference. And Bukayo certainly gave us that.”

The Arsenal Champions League semi-final also depends on mindset. Arteta pointed to young players like Myles Lewis-Skelly. “We always talked about, in this moment, we need players with a great emotional state.”

Arsenal vs Atlético Madrid will demand control under pressure. “We are feeling very good for tomorrow.”

Arsenal vs Atlético Madrid Prediction Context as Arteta Focuses On Delivery

Arteta kept his focus on preparation ahead of Arsenal vs Atlético Madrid. “The conversation is always, first of all, to get the best preparation for the game. Be prepared, be ready, be quality, be clarity, and deliver on the day.”

This Champions League semi-final second leg will decide who reaches the final.

When asked about winning trophies, Arteta stayed direct. “I’ve done it many years ago. You can never promise to win major trophies. You can promise to work every single day. Here we are. Now we have to make the next step.” The Atlético Madrid vs Arsenal tie now offers that chance.

He ended with a clear call. “Go and grab it,” Arteta said. “When you are in front of such an opportunity, it means that you are ready to deliver.” He also backed his players despite the opponent’s preparation. “They have given me the reason to believe… that we can do it in any context against any opponent.”

The Emirates Stadium will host a full crowd, with fans planning displays and gathering early. Arsenal vs Atlético Madrid now comes down to one result, with a place in the Champions League final on the line.