Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey has called for composure and confidence as Arsenal prepare for a decisive UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Having delivered an impressive performance in the first leg at the Emirates, Partey is expected to play a crucial role as the Gunners head into the return leg in Spain.
Speaking ahead of the clash, the 31-year-old emphasized the importance of sticking to their game plan and staying mentally focused in a stadium known for its high-pressure atmosphere.
“I think we’ve experienced this many times when we play here and I think it’s not going to be something different,” Partey said. “We just have to be confident with the ball and try to play our game.”
Arsenal head into the encounter knowing that any lapse in focus could be costly against the 14-time European champions. But Partey believes the team is fully aware of what is required and are prepared to rise to the challenge.
“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.”
Arsenal are chasing a place in the semi-finals for the first time since 2009, and Partey’s leadership and experience could prove vital in their quest for European glory.
