Arsenal have discovered their next Champions League opponents after getting past PSV but the Gunners have been handed a significant transfer blow ahead of the summer window
Arsenal could still have a chance to lift silverware this season despite a disappointing few weeks.
The Gunners remain in the Champions League after a dominant aggregate win against Dutch side PSV. And Mikel Arteta’s side have already found out their next opponents.
The North London side will take on Spanish giants Real Madrid as they squeezed past cross-city rivals Atletico Madrid in controversial circumstances. Away from Europe, Arsenal are also still in the race for the Premier League crown, albeit their hopes are fleeting.
There’s also been plenty of talk over transfers over the past 24 hours. Take a look at the standout Arsenal news:
Kimmich explains u-turn
Joshua Kimmich has explained why he decided to stay with Bayern Munich despite reported talks with Arsenal. The German midfielder was apparently a target for the club, with his contract previously set to expire this summer.
But he has now decided to sign a new deal at the Allianz Arena, and has explained why he did not pursue a move to the Premier League. He said: “At FC Bayern, I have the best environment to achieve my sporting goals. I made my decision based on that.
“There’s currently no better package of teammates, coaching staff, and club environment for me to achieve maximum success. I feel comfortable here, and I’m not finished yet.”
Arsenal have also been linked with one of Kimmich’s current teammates, Leroy Sane. The German wideman is also out of contract this summer.
Arteta makes Champions League vow
Mikel Arteta has promised Arsenal are not done in the Champions League quite yet despite a difficult quarter-final meeting with Real Madrid. Speaking after Wednesday’s win vs PSV, he said: “We have to value that and recognise it’s very difficult to do. Now we want to make the next step. It’s very difficult but we are capable to do it.
“It is important for us because we want to win – and to win, you have to go through the stages, and because the club needs it. We are a club that want to be the best and want to be competing with the best in the world.
“To do that you have to constantly be there. It’s very difficult but we’ve done it for two years in a row and we have the capacity and ability to do it even better.”
How far will Arsenal go in the Champions League? Share your predictions in the comments below
Zinchenko gives Real Madrid response
Oleksandr Zinchenko has given a behind-the-scenes insight at Arsenal and how the dressing room reacted to their upcoming game with Real Madrid. Asked about the draw, he said : “How can you cheer?
“It was a mixed feeling, because to be honest Atletico have been unlucky with that Julian Alvarez penalty. No one said anything.
“It was just mixed emotions, because to play against Real or Atletico, they are both amazing clubs. It is going to be an amazing experience for all of us. To face one of the best teams in the world, with that much experience and world-class players, is always nice. We are all looking forward to it.”
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