Mikel Arteta credited a phone call with Pep Guardiola for his success in leading Arsenal to victory over Real Madrid at the Bernabeu, securing a spot in the Champions League semi-finals. Arteta, who previously served as Guardiola's assistant at Manchester City, expressed gratitude towards his mentor for inspiring him both as a player and a coach. Despite past tensions between Arsenal and Manchester City, Arteta acknowledged Guardiola's influence in shaping his coaching career.
The win against Real Madrid marked a significant achievement for Arsenal, propelling them into the semi-finals where they will face Paris Saint-Germain. Arteta emphasized the team's readiness to compete against any opponent, highlighting the momentum gained from their recent success. Reflecting on the challenging circumstances and injuries faced by the team, Arteta commended his players for their maturity and performance, underscoring the pride he felt in their achievement on the Champions League stage.