Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice says the team is full of belief and determined to “deliver something special” as they look to overturn a 1-0 first-leg deficit against Paris Saint-Germain in Wednesday’s Champions League semi-final second leg in Paris.
Speaking at the Parc des Princes on Tuesday, Rice emphasized Arsenal’s hunger to reach the final. “We’re here to win and make a statement. We want to get to the final, and we’re ready to do what it takes,” he said, urging his teammates to show courage and composure on football’s biggest stage.
PSG hold the edge thanks to Ousmane Dembele’s goal at the Emirates, but Rice and manager Mikel Arteta remain confident. The Gunners are looking to reach the Champions League final for the first time since 2006.
Arteta, a former PSG player, believes Arsenal didn’t deserve to lose the first leg and called on his players to seize the moment. “We are a win away from the Champions League final — it doesn’t get much better than that,” he said.
Rice pointed to their recent win away at Real Madrid as proof the team can handle high-pressure situations. “We’ve shown we can rise to the occasion, and tomorrow is another chance to do that,” he added.
While Arsenal await a late fitness decision on defender Jurrien Timber, Riccardo Calafiori is confirmed fit and has traveled with the squad. PSG, meanwhile, expect Dembele to be available despite a hamstring concern.