New Delhi, Sep 16 (NationPress) Arsenal's head coach Mikel Arteta has called on his team to make a mark in UEFA Champions League history as they kick off their campaign this Tuesday. Despite never having lifted the UCL trophy, Arsenal last reached the finals in 2006, facing FC Barcelona.

"This highlights the challenge we face, given our extensive history. We have yet to win it, and that's the chance before us. For me, pressure represents an opportunity that fuels our energy and our desire to improve continuously. Each decision must align with those standards and expectations, so let’s maximize our chances to achieve this goal," Arteta stated during the pre-match press conference.

He added, "The elite clubs that have won it often enter the competition multiple times—seven, eight, or nine—and may only succeed twice. In this tournament, failure is more common than success, which reflects our club's history and what we aspire to alter."

Arteta also provided updates regarding the fitness of Martin Odegaard, Ben White, and Bukayo Saka ahead of the match against Athletic Club.

The captain sustained a shoulder injury during their 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest and had to be substituted for Ethan Nwaneri after just 18 minutes. Ben has not played since his start at Old Trafford on August 17, while Bukayo exited the game against Leeds United on August 23.

Speaking to the media in Bilbao ahead of the encounter at San Mames, Arteta commented, "Unfortunately, Gabi, Kai, Ben, and Martin are all still unavailable."

Regarding Saka's condition, he noted, "It’s too early to determine when he will be fit again, but he is certainly eager to return as soon as possible."