Ghana international and Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has called on his teammates to remain calm, confident, and focused ahead of their high-stakes UEFA Champions League quarterfinal second-leg encounter against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu.
With Arsenal holding a commanding 3-0 lead from the first leg at the Emirates, Partey insists the Gunners must not become complacent, highlighting the importance of sticking to their identity and playing style in one of football’s most intimidating stadiums.
“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 in a pre-match interview. “We just have to be confident with the ball and try to play our game.”
The 31-year-old midfielder stressed that despite the lead, Arsenal’s mindset must be aggressive and focused on securing another win rather than simply defending their advantage.
“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 added.
Partey’s leadership and experience will be crucial as Mikel Arteta’s side aims to advance to the Champions League semifinals for the first time since 2009.
The second leg takes place on Wednesday, April 16, at the Santiago Bernabéu, where Real Madrid are expected to come out fighting in front of their home crowd.
