Arteta makes request of Arsenal fans for Real Madrid clash | OneFootball

Mikel Arteta has called on Arsenal fans to turn up early and play the game against Real Madrid along with the team on Tuesday night.

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Mikel Arteta spoke to the media on Monday ahead of Arsenal’s Champions League quarter-final first leg match against Real Madrid the following day, and he admitted the game is “100%” his biggest in management so far.

The Arsenal boss is well aware that his team will need the fans to help push them over the line in this tie, and he called on them to turn up early for the match.

“I encourage them to come very early, to the warm up,” Arteta said. “And create those nights that we haven’t lived many of at the Emirates.

“When we build history, we have to build moments. And that moment is being built with our people. We have to create that energy, that belief, that enthusiasm to play every single action.

“The confidence that gives you, there is nothing else (we can do) that can replicate that.”

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On the importance of the supporters in general, Arteta was clear that this is the opportunity to drive the team on, not just a chance to watch some good players in action.

“We’re going to need our people playing every single ball with us,” Arteta said.

“That’s going to make a huge difference, because that is something that’s really needed at these stages. You need your home stadium to create a very, very special atmosphere to generate momentum.

“I encourage everybody to go there tomorrow to play the game with us, not to be there watching it.”

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Arsenal have planned pre-match fan displays including every supporter in the stadium, as well as a couple of large banners in the Clock End and the East Stand.

Supporters groups have urged those attending to arrive at least half an hour before kick-off.

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Anyone who turns up late will miss the chance to be involved, and waste the opportunity to give the team an extra boost of pre-match confidence. This isn’t a night to turn up at kick-off time.