Ghana international and Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has urged his teammates to remain composed and committed to their style of play as they head into a high-pressure UEFA Champions League quarterfinal second-leg clash against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu.
With Arsenal holding a commanding 3-0 advantage from the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, Partey insists that the Gunners cannot afford to be complacent in the return leg, especially against a side as experienced and dangerous as Madrid in Europe.
Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s encounter, Partey emphasized the importance of confidence and focus amid the expected intensity at one of football’s most iconic venues.
“I think we’ve experienced this many times when we play here, and I think it’s not going to be something different,” the 31-year-old told reporters. “We just have to be confident with the ball and try to play our game.”
Partey, who has returned to form in recent weeks, stressed the need for Arsenal to maintain their aggressive mindset despite the advantage. He noted that Real Madrid’s pedigree makes them dangerous, and Arsenal must go into the match with the mentality to win.
“We all know what we have to do. We have to go there with the mentality to win. We want to win every game. And I think we have to play our game, be confident with the ball, and also try to find their weaknesses and keep attacking them,” he added.
Arsenal are aiming to reach the UEFA Champions League semifinals for the first time since 2009, and Partey’s experience and calm presence in midfield will be key as Mikel Arteta’s side looks to make history.
The second leg will take place on Wednesday, April 16, at the Santiago Bernabéu, where Real Madrid are expected to come out strong in front of their home fans in a bid to overturn the deficit.
