Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta says he enjoys “the pressure of winning” ahead of the Gunners’ second leg of their Europa League last-32 clash against Benfica.
The Gunners, who drew the first leg 1-1, will face the Portuguese side again on Thursday with the Europa League their only hope of Champions League qualification this season.
Arteta’s side have had a poor campaign, having only won ten of their 25 Premier League matches this term and are currently sitting 11th in the table.
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And the Spaniard says he “always” feels the pressure with Leeds United’s victory over Southampton on Tuesday night putting Arsenal into the bottom half.
“Every time you are playing a competition you can go out, and you know the consequences,” said Arteta.
“With this club, you are always here to win the competition you are in. Nothing really changes.
“This is why you are here. When you play these type of competitions and these type of games. Finals.
“This is the pressure you want. It’s much better to have the pressure to win than the pressure not to lose. I really enjoy the pressure of winning.”
On the clash with Benfica, Arteta added: “While mathematically it’s possible [to make the top four in the Premier League], you have to try so hard,” said Arteta.
“With the Europa League it gives you a route [into the Champions League]. We need to be alive in both competitions.”
When asked if it is his side’s biggest game of the season, Arteta said: “It’s a big game and a really important one mentally and confidence wise. I
“It’s going to dictate whether we are in the competition or not for a few more weeks. This is really what we need.
“Benfica are a really tough opponent. It’s a Champions League team with a manager of huge experience, but for us, tomorrow is a final.”
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