Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta has urged the club’s fans to enjoy where they are and not criticise. The Gunners secured their Champions League semifinal spot after a 0-0 draw at home in the second-leg quarterfinal against Sporting CP.

Arteta’s team had registered a 1-0 win in the first leg while playing away, which was eventually enough for them to make it to the last four of Europe’s prestigious tournament.

It is the first time in the club’s history that they have qualified in back-to-back semifinals of the Champions League. Furthermore, the Gunners have never won the Champions League and are looking to win the Premier League title for the first time in 22 years.

Arteta said as quoted by ESPN, “I wish that we were doing the Arsenal documentary this season, and you can film the last 48 hours and know everything that has been said [about us], but [then] we are watching the series in July, and then we have to ask ourselves the question, we are watching the movies and say, ‘OK, where does Arsenal place?’

“I think all of us will say they are in the bottom three [based on the criticism]. So what are we talking about, guys? Please, enjoy where we are as a club.

“If someone doesn’t want to do it, so be it. We are enjoying a lot, and I feel a huge gratitude for what the players are doing and our supporters, so thank you.”

The Spaniard coach revealed that midfielder Declan Rice was not in a position to play the full game, but he played the entire game against Sporting CP.

“Declan yesterday, he was shattered,” said Arteta. “He had no chance to play today, he wasn’t feeling good at all today, he played 94 minutes at the level that he’s on.

“Every single player is putting everything through the line to contribute, to give their best and I really value that from the team.”

Arsenal will take on Manchester City in a huge clash at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.