Martin Odegaard has called on Arsenal to “stick together” following their recent setbacks as they prepare for a crucial Champions League semi-final clash against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday.
The Gunners face a tough challenge at the Parc des Princes, needing to overcome the French champions to secure a spot in the Champions League final for the second time in the club’s history.
Mikel Arteta’s side trail 1-0 from the first leg, after a decisive goal from Ousmane Dembele in north London.
PSG have already dispatched Premier League champions Liverpool in the round of 16 and Aston Villa in the quarter-finals, after also defeating Manchester City in the group stages.
Arsenal, still in search of their first-ever Champions League title, are on the brink of becoming PSG’s latest English victim this season, following a disappointing first leg that could have seen them suffer a heavier defeat.
To make matters worse, Arsenal’s preparations for the second leg in Paris took another blow with a 2-1 loss to Bournemouth in the Premier League on Saturday. Arteta described his team as being full of “rage and anger” after the back-to-back defeats.
However, Gunners captain Odegaard believes these emotions can serve as motivation for a remarkable comeback against PSG, as long as the team remains unified and focused.
“We’re disappointed right now, but we have to move forward, be strong, and stick together to prepare for this massive game,” said Odegaard.
“It’s a huge match, and when you’re feeling disappointed, angry, and frustrated, you can channel all those emotions into Wednesday’s game. We know what’s at stake. We need to stay united, create energy, and be ready.”
Arteta’s decision to make only two changes against Bournemouth raised questions, particularly about the fitness of key players. Only Jurrien Timber and Mikel Merino were rested, with Arteta revealing that Timber would undergo a fitness test ahead of the PSG fixture to determine his availability.
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