MIKEL Arteta has challenged Arsenal to prove their wretched Champions League record against Bayern Munich is ancient history as the Gunners look to seize their “special” opportunity to reach the semi-finals.
Arteta’s side have endured a series of chastening defeats against Bayern over the last decade, but Arteta expects them to reverse that trend in Tuesday’s quarter-final first leg.
Beaten 5-1 in each of their last three meetings with Bayern, Arsenal were eliminated from the Champions League by the German club in the last 16 in 2017, 2014, 2013 and 2005.
However, Premier League leaders Arsenal are in superb form, while Bayern arrive at the Emirates Stadium in turmoil.
Arteta puts no stock in his club’s past problems against Bayern and the Spaniard called on his players to justify his faith.
“That’s history. When you look at their history in the competition it’s clear. We have to prove that, that’s for sure,” Arteta told reporters on Monday.
“Football is such a competitive environment and it’s so hard to be consistent that this can happen to anybody.
“We are really enjoying the moment because this is where we want to be. We are in a really good position in the Premier League and we are in a good position in the Champions League.
“We have a big task ahead of us against one of the successful teams in Europe. That’s the hurdle we have to overcome and we are really looking forward to it.”
Arsenal have not made the Champions League semi-finals since 2009 and will be playing in the last eight for the first time since 2010.
While Bayern are well below their usual standards this term, Arteta is relishing the opportunity to face the six-time European champions.
