Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal are through to the Champions League semi-finals
Arsenal Football Newsletter
Mikel Arteta dismissed criticism of Arsenal's recent results, suggesting he wished the club were doing a documentary this season to provide some perspective.
The Gunners have qualified for consecutive Champions League semi-finals for the first time in the club's history after a 1-0 aggregate win over Sporting CP.
A goalless draw did little to suggest Arsenal were back to their best or ready to attack the final weeks of the season, but it was enough to secure a semi-final tie against Atletico Madrid.
That was a necessary boost after a run of three defeats in four matches, including a loss to Bournemouth on Saturday that has left their Premier League title hopes in serious jeopardy.
However, asked if qualification was a relief after what had happened in the last few weeks, Arteta responded: "What happened?"
Arteta hit back at some of the analysis of Arsenal's form, claiming the club have been covered as though they are in the relegation zone.
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A behind-the-scenes documentary covered Arsenal's 2021-22 season and the Arsenal manager would have liked something similar this season to highlight the bigger picture.
"I know but what happens in the reality of where we are - I don't know if the context and reality are very much the same," Arteta said.
"I wish we were doing the Arsenal documentary this season and you could feel the last 48 hours and everything that's been said, but we are watching the series in July.
"Then we have to ask ourselves the question - we are watching the movie and say: 'Okay, what is Arsenal's place?'
"I think all of us would say they are in the bottom three. What are you talking about guys, please?
"Enjoy where we are as a club. If somebody doesn't want to do it, so be it. We are enjoying a lot and I feel huge gratitude for what the players are doing and our supporters."