Arteta Unveils the 'Magic' Formula That Propelled Arsenal to Their Best Champions League Run in 16 Years

Mikel Arteta attributed Arsenal's advancement to the Champions League quarterfinals for the third consecutive season to the squad's collective commitment to high pressing, calling it the key "magic" ingredient.

The Gunners have only previously achieved this feat once in their history. During the period from 2007–08 to 2009–10, Arsène Wenger guided the north London club to two quarterfinal appearances surrounding a semifinal elimination by Manchester United.

While Wenger established Arsenal as Champions League knockout stage regulars, they consistently struggled to break through the round-of-16 barrier. For seven straight campaigns between 2011–17, the Gunners failed to advance beyond the last 16. Their current frequent presence at this stage represents a source of special satisfaction for Arteta.

Arsenal's Champions League Run

Arsenal's Champions League Run

* Season ongoing

"Reaching this level is extremely challenging," Arteta expressed with satisfaction following a convincing 2–0 triumph over Bayer Leverkusen in Tuesday's last-16 encounter, "so the squad merits significant recognition for this achievement, particularly given our demanding Premier League fixture list and multiple tournament commitments.

"The circumstances are incredibly demanding, but I'm delighted and believe we've earned our place here."

'That's the Magic'—Arteta Hails Eze's Development

'That's the Magic'—Arteta Hails Eze's Development

Eberechi Eze's spectacular strike into the top corner established the foundation for a straightforward victory against Leverkusen. Beyond his powerful goal, the skillful midfielder has shown marked improvement in recent matches, "developing stronger connections and deeper understanding" with his colleagues according to Arteta. "When you deliver quality performances and decisive moments—actions that can determine the outcome—it elevates your self-belief, which every player requires."

A fundamental requirement for all players under Arteta's guidance is unwavering work rate. Arsenal's two strikes against Leverkusen originated from intense pressing situations, providing an alternative creative outlet against opponents who defend with compact, deep formations.

"Without that [pressing commitment], you have no opportunity to feature in this squad," Arteta emphasized. "Everyone contributes to it, and that's the secret behind our consistency in securing victories and limiting opposition scoring opportunities."

Arsenal currently sit third for high turnovers in the Premier League this campaign, with only Liverpool converting more goals from these situations than the industrious Gunners.

Arsenal's Route to 2025–26 Champions League Final

Arsenal's Route to 2025–26 Champions League Final

Sporting CP comeback complete. pic.twitter.com/T2hB4km4kU

Arsenal's prize for defeating Bayer Leverkusen is a quarterfinal meeting with Sporting CP. The Portuguese title holders reversed a 3–0 first-leg disadvantage against Bodø/Glimt on Tuesday, ending that Norwegian club's remarkable European journey.

The Gunners demolished Sporting 5–1 during their previous encounter in last season's Champions League group stage, a match where Gabriel playfully imitated his future teammate Viktor Gyökeres' signature mask celebration.

If Arteta's team can overcome their Portuguese opponents again, they will probably face another Spanish side in the semifinals. Atlético Madrid have virtually secured their quarterfinal spot after demolishing Arsenal's north London neighbors Tottenham Hotspur 5–2 in the opening leg.

Barcelona enter Wednesday's home fixture against Newcastle United as favorites to meet Atlético in the semifinal following a 1–1 stalemate at St. James' Park.

In the opposite half of the bracket, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid were first to secure quarterfinal qualification, while only a remarkable turnaround from Atalanta could prevent Bayern Munich's progression. Liverpool face a challenging task against Galatasaray after suffering a 1–0 defeat in Turkey, though Arne Slot's team's recent performances suggest limited prospects of reaching the final, where they could potentially encounter Arsenal.