Arsenal’s Champions League saga: Can they conquer past woes in the Round of 16?

Ian Dancan Otieno
By Ian Dancan Otieno UEFA UEFA Champions League 5 Min Read

Season after season, Arsenal fans have hoped for a different ending, a narrative where their team rises to the occasion and delivers memorable performances on the European stage. Yet, they’ve often fallen short in crucial moments, or simply being outclassed by stronger opponents.

“Yeah, and someone called Messi as well was another obstacle that we faced and Bayern Munich as well – this competition is where it is, individual quality.” Is what Mikel Arteta had to say when quizzed on whether there was a mental block that hindered the team from winning the highest accolade in European Football.

In deed Arsenal’s journey in the Champions League round of 16 has been a rollercoaster of emotions, often marked by heartbreak and disappointment. Despite their illustrious history and the talent within their squad, they’ve struggled to make a deep impact in the latter stages of the tournament in recent years.

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Since the inception of the round of 16 in the UEFA Champions League in 2003-04, Arsenal has been ousted at this stage more often than any other team, with a total of nine eliminations. This includes their exit in each of their last seven appearances in the competition between 2010-11 and 2016-17. (I still remember watching those 10-2 humiliations in the hands of Bayern Munchen at Nyayo hostels in Kenyatta University)

But every story has the potential for a different ending, and perhaps Arsenal’s fortunes in the Champions League could change. With a history of struggles at this stage, the team looks to rewrite the narrative and secure a different ending to their all-too-familiar tale in the Champions League round of 16.

Since taking the helm at Arsenal, Mikel Arteta has instigated a clear tactical evolution, shifting the team’s style towards a more possession-based and proactive approach. The emphasis on positional play and high pressing has become a hallmark of Arteta’s Arsenal, leading to improved performances against top-tier opposition.

Arsenal’s recent form has been a testament to the cohesive team dynamics fostered by Arteta. The synergy on the pitch is palpable, with fluid passing and a shared defensive responsibility becoming hallmarks of their play. The team’s ability to adapt to different tactical challenges has been impressive, showcasing a versatility that could be pivotal in their Champions League aspirations.

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They face a familiar adversary In Porto at Estádio do Dragão. Arsenal’s last advancement beyond the round of 16 in the UEFA Champions League dates back to the 2009-2010 season. They achieved this by triumphing over FC Porto with an impressive 6-2 aggregate score. Notably, Nicklas Bendtner secured a memorable hat-trick for the Gunners at the Emirates Stadium during that tie.

Mikel Arteta when asked on how much belief he had that the team can go deep into the competition had the following to say: “It’s great we have earned the right to be here. It’s been seven years since we’ve been at this table for this kind of match and 14 years since we’ve been able to go to the next stage. That’s the challenge, that’s what is ahead of us and we are really excited to face it, and to go for it with full belief, that’s for sure. “

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The prospect of Arsenal triumphing in the Champions League is one that is met with both anticipation and historical trepidation. The ‘Round of 16 curses’ has long been a stumbling block for the Gunners, but with a blend of tactical acumen, team spirit, and perhaps a touch of fortune, they have the potential to rewrite the narrative. The journey ahead is fraught with challenges, yet it is these very obstacles that offer Arsenal the chance to emerge not just as competitors, but as champions. The question remains: Can they break the cycle and claim European glory? Only time will tell, but the stage is set for Super Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal to chase the ultimate vindication in club football.

 

 

 

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