Mikel Arteta is anticipating “a big atmosphere” at Emirates Stadium as Arsenal prepare to face Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg. With his sights set on securing a second piece of silverware during his five-year tenure, Arteta is determined to build on his team’s momentum.
Arteta, who claimed his first major trophy by leading Arsenal to FA Cup glory against Chelsea in 2020, is eager to add to his collection. “I’m very positive that we’re going to create a big atmosphere against a really good opposition in the semi-final of the cup that we want to win, so let’s go for it,” the Spaniard said in the build-up to the match.
“We’re very excited to play the game in front of our crowd. It’s a semi-final and an opportunity to earn the right to be in a final and that starts with two legs. Obviously, they’re going to be two long games against a very competitive team, we know that, but very excited and we need a big, big atmosphere in our stadium,” Arteta added, underlining the importance of home support.
However, Arsenal will be without promising young talent Ethan Nwaneri, who suffered a muscular injury during the 1-1 draw with Brighton last Saturday. Arteta confirmed that the midfielder will be sidelined for “a few weeks” as he recovers.
As Arsenal fans eagerly await the semi-final clash, the Emirates is expected to be buzzing with anticipation, as Arteta and his squad aim to take a step closer to lifting another trophy.
The match will be played on Tuesday night, 1/7/2025 at 20:00PM GMT