Ghana international and Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has urged his teammates to stay composed and focused as they prepare for a crucial UEFA Champions League quarterfinal second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Despite holding a commanding 3-0 lead from the first leg at the Emirates, Partey warned that complacency could prove costly in one of football’s most intimidating environments.
“We’ve experienced this many times when we play here and I think it’s not going to be something different,” Partey said in a recent pre-match interview. “We just have to be confident with the ball and try to play our game.”
Acknowledging the rich history and intense atmosphere of the Bernabéu, Partey stressed that Arsenal must remain aggressive and true to their style.
“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 continued.
At 31, the experienced midfielder understands the challenges that come with facing Real Madrid in their home stadium, where the electric crowd and pressure of history can unsettle any team.
However, he believes that their previous encounters at the Bernabéu have prepared them for the task ahead, and that the key to success lies in their ability to maintain composure under pressure and stick to their tactical blueprint.
Partey’s leadership is seen as critical as Mikel Arteta’s side looks to secure a historic advancement to the Champions League semifinals—a stage they have not reached since 2009.
The second leg, set for Wednesday, April 16, will be a true test of Arsenal’s resilience, with Real Madrid expected to challenge relentlessly in front of their passionate home fans.
