Arteta told his players: Some things are non-negotiable. 2025

 Spanish manager Mikel Arteta has urged his Arsenal players to push themselves to deliver their very best when they face PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16. In his pre-match press conference, Arteta stressed the importance of maintaining the high level of performance that Arsenal has displayed so far in the competition, and the manager expressed his belief that it will be crucial to continue this form in the upcoming knockout stages.

Arteta highlighted that consistency at the top level is not a matter of luck but a result of hard work and inherent ability. "We will focus on what we've done so far and what we need to do moving forward. Maintaining a high level for months or even across several seasons is not a coincidence. It’s either we have the ability to do so, or we don’t," he said. The manager underscored the importance of each player contributing to the team’s success, as the competition in the knockout stages intensifies.

Furthermore, Arteta made it clear that there are aspects of the team’s performance that cannot be compromised. "There are things that are non-negotiable, and we must adapt to them. We still have the opportunity to become a more effective and stronger team," he added. His remarks demonstrate his belief that, despite their strong performances so far, there is always room for improvement, especially when it comes to fine-tuning their tactics and individual contributions.

As the team prepares for a challenging encounter with PSV Eindhoven, Arteta emphasized the need to elevate the team’s overall level and ambitions. "At this stage, we must raise our level and our ambitions," he continued. "Every player has to be at their very best. When we achieve that, and with the excellent communication we have on the field, we will undoubtedly be a strong team."

Currently, Arsenal is in second place in the Premier League, and PSV Eindhoven holds the same position in the Dutch Eredivisie, making this encounter between two highly competitive teams all the more thrilling. Arteta’s focus is firmly on ensuring that his team remains at their peak for this crucial Champions League

 clash.