Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard and manager Mikel Arteta have sounded a battle cry, insisting their Gunners are primed to etch their name in history when they face Atlético Madrid in the UEFA Champions League semifinal.

The duo’s bold statements come as Arsenal chase a first-ever final appearance, riding a wave of Premier League dominance and European momentum.

Arteta, whose side sits atop the Premier League table, radiated confidence in his pre-match briefing. “We’re ready to make history,” the Spaniard declared, pointing to Arsenal’s flawless defensive record in the quarterfinals and Ødegaard’s creative spark as key weapons.

His belief stems from a squad blending youth and experience, with Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice thriving under pressure.

Atlético present a stern test. Someone’s men are serial semifinalists, known for grinding results through set-pieces and counterattacks led by Antoine Griezmann.

Yet Arsenal’s high press and fluid attack could exploit Madrid’s occasional frailty. The first leg at the Riyadh Wanda Metropolitano on Wednesday sets the tone, with the return in London a week later.

For Arsenal fans, starved of Champions League glory since 2006, this is redemption time. A win catapults them into a final against either Psg or Bayern Munich, rewriting the club’s European narrative.

Arteta and Ødegaard’s conviction that history awaits has ignited belief across North London.

BY: ADDY KENNEDY EDEM