Declan Rice has called on Arsenal F.C. to channel their history as they pursue a first-ever UEFA Champions League title, ahead of Wednesday’s semi-final clash with Atlético Madrid.

The Gunners head to the Spanish capital for the first leg aiming to edge closer to just their second appearance in a Champions League final.

Mikel Arteta’s side have often been branded as English football’s “nearly men” after finishing as Premier League runners-up three seasons in a row.

Their struggles have extended to Europe, where they were beaten 3-1 on aggregate by eventual champions Paris Saint-Germain in last season’s semi-finals, having also been knocked out by Bayern Munich in the 2024 quarter-finals.

Arsenal are still searching for their first triumph in Europe’s top club competition, with their only final ending in defeat to FC Barcelona back in 2006.

While ending their recent run of near misses in the Premier League remains a major target, winning the Champions League would be a powerful answer to critics who question the team’s mentality under Arteta.

Just seven matches stand between Arsenal F.C. and what could become the greatest season in the club’s history.

They currently hold a three-point lead over Manchester City F.C. at the top of the Premier League, with four fixtures remaining, while Pep Guardiola’s side still have five to play.

In Europe, Arsenal could play up to three more matches in the UEFA Champions League if they progress to the final, where either Paris Saint-Germain or Bayern Munich await in Budapest on May 30.

Declan Rice has urged his teammates to show that their past challenges have prepared them for this defining moment.

The midfielder said the squad’s experience in high-pressure matches over recent seasons has strengthened them, giving them a clear understanding of what lies ahead.

He added that reaching the Champions League semi-finals is something to embrace and enjoy, encouraging the team to rise to the occasion as the season reaches its climax.

Havertz and Eze fitness concerns

After back-to-back defeats to Manchester City F.C. — a 2-0 loss in the League Cup final and a 2-1 setback in the Premier League — questions still linger over whether Arsenal F.C. can deliver in the biggest moments.

A tense 1-0 victory against Newcastle United F.C. on Saturday did little to silence the doubters with its performance, though it did halt a two-game league losing streak.

The result also helped ease mounting pressure after four defeats in their previous six matches across all competitions.

Attention has now turned to the fitness of Eberechi Eze and Kai Havertz ahead of the trip to Madrid, with both players forced off through injury last weekend.

Eze had earlier reached double figures for the season, scoring his 10th goal with a stunning effort against Newcastle.

The England midfielder has provided a rare spark in attack for Arsenal F.C., a team whose success has largely been built on defensive solidity.

Declan Rice is eager to have his international teammate available for the clash with Diego Simeone’s Atlético Madrid.

He highlighted the player’s key role in the squad, praising his exceptional striking ability and overall quality.

Rice also stressed how important he will be in the coming weeks, underlining that the team will rely heavily on his influence during this crucial stage of the season.