Europa League

Arsene Wenger: Atletico Madrid clash "absolutely vital" for Arsenal

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter | 19 April 2018

Wenger: 'Atletico clash vital for Arsenal'

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger admits that his side must overcome "a big obstacle" in Atletico Madrid if they are to keep their season alive.

Arsene Wenger has acknowledged the importance of Arsenal's upcoming Europa League semi-final showdown with Atletico Madrid, admitting that it is "absolutely vital" his side win the competition.

The Gunners are 14 points behind fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League and are now left battling for silverware on just one front.

Arsenal have been handed the toughest of last-four draws, however, having been paired with the tournament favourites for a place in next month's final in Wenger's native France.

Asked if victory is required for this season to be considered anything other than a failure, the 68-year-old said: "It would be better, yes.

"We have a big opponent in Atletico Madrid and it's absolutely vital we beat them, progress to the final and have a chance to win the competition.

"But it is a big obstacle in the semi-final, a big hurdle. Atletico Madrid are seen as the favourites to win the competition but I believe that at our best, we can beat them."

Arsenal earned a 6-3 aggregate win over CSKA Moscow in the previous round after surviving a second-leg scare in Russia.