Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino remains confident ahead of the second leg of their Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain, despite trailing 1-0 from the first leg. Merino acknowledged the early setback caused by Ousmane Dembélé's fourth-minute goal but emphasized the team's strong recovery and belief in their ability to overturn the deficit in Paris. He highlighted the team's character and dominance in the latter stages of the match, expressing optimism for the upcoming fixture.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta echoed Merino's sentiments, stressing the need for a "special" performance in the return leg to reach the final. Arteta noted that the tie is effectively at "halftime" and expressed confidence in his team's capability to secure a victory in Paris, citing the narrow margins that determined the first-leg result.
Both Merino and Arteta's statements reflect a shared determination and belief in Arsenal's potential to advance to their first Champions League final since 2006. The team's resilience and focus will be crucial as they prepare for the decisive second leg in Paris. ([Arsenal need something special in Paris, says hopeful Arteta.