Champions League Final: Fans ‘Set The Standards’ At Rocking Emirates – Arteta

Mikel Arteta hailed Arsenal supporters for “setting the standards” after the Gunners booked their place in the UEFA Champions League final with a composed 2-1 aggregate victory over Atletico Madrid on Tuesday night.

A narrow but decisive 1-0 win at the Emirates Stadium, secured by a first-half strike from Bukayo Saka, proved enough to send Arsenal into only the second Champions League final in their history — their first since 2006.

Speaking after the match, Arteta was visibly moved by the occasion and the atmosphere generated by the home crowd. He described the night as “incredible”, praising the fans’ energy, passion and unwavering support from the moment the team arrived at the stadium.

According to the Spaniard, the players fed directly off the intensity in the stands. He noted that the supporters effectively raised the bar, with the team striving to match that same level of commitment and belief on the pitch.

Arteta also highlighted the unity within his squad, revealing that even players left out of the starting line-up responded with professionalism and encouragement. He described their reactions as a testament to the collective spirit driving Arsenal’s success this season.

He reserved special praise for Saka, calling the winger “someone very special” and a fitting match-winner on such a historic night.

With four matches remaining in the domestic campaign, Arsenal remain firmly on course for a potential historic double, sitting five points clear at the top of the Premier League table.