Oleksandr Zinchenko ready for Arsenal’s clash against Real Madrid

Arsenal’s Oleksandr Zinchenko has expressed optimism ahead of the Champions League quarter-final clash against reigning champions Real Madrid.

Arsenal’s Zinchenko: We Must Be at Our Best Against Real Madrid

The Gunners secured their spot in the last eight after a commanding 9-3 aggregate victory over PSV Eindhoven, setting up a high-stakes encounter with the Spanish giants.

Zinchenko, who played a pivotal role in the tie against PSV, emphasized the importance of unwavering focus when facing a team of Real Madrid’s caliber.

Reflecting on the upcoming challenge, he remarked, “I think in this competition, especially at this stage, you cannot be relaxed even for one second – because, honestly, the level and demands from all the teams at this stage is so high.”

He further noted that any lapse in concentration could be costly, stating, “If you are relaxed, even for a bit, they can punish you. This is what we should learn from the past.”

The Ukrainian international’s sentiments are echoed by Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who acknowledges the magnitude of the task ahead.

Arteta highlighted the necessity for Arsenal to be at their best throughout both legs of the quarter-final, emphasizing that the outcome will hinge on individual performances and decisive moments in the penalty areas.

He stated, “The first thing is that you have to be at your best when it comes to that for the two games, for every minute.

Don’t give anything away, because they’re going to take it.”

Arsenal’s progression to the quarter-finals in consecutive seasons underscores the team’s growth and ambition on the European stage.

Arteta underscored the significance of this achievement, asserting, “We are a club, a team, that wants to be the best and want to be competing with the best clubs in the world.

In order to do that, you constantly have to be there.”

As the Gunners prepare to face Real Madrid, Zinchenko’s experience and leadership will be invaluable.

His understanding of the demands at this level serves as a reminder to his teammates of the concentration and commitment required to succeed against Europe’s elite.

The upcoming fixtures promise to be a stern test of Arsenal’s credentials, but with a blend of optimism and realism, Zinchenko and his colleagues are gearing up to embrace the challenge head-on.

The first leg of the quarter-final is scheduled to take place at the Emirates Stadium on April 8, with the return fixture at the Santiago Bernabeu set for the following week.

Arsenal supporters will be hopeful that their team can rise to the occasion and secure a coveted spot in the semi-finals.