Arsene Wenger revealed something Arsenal fans did not want to hear before the Gunners face Manchester United in the FA Cup quarterfinals. The manager claimed that he has sacrificed FA Cup success for a shot at European glory.
The London-based team might not be making such sacrifice this time around as their chances to shine in the Champions League are almost gone. A 3-1 loss against Monaco in the first leg of their last-16 tie has them against the ropes.
“Monday night is a big game, and every big win in a big game has an impact subconsciously in the belief of the team,” Wenger said.
For Arsenal, having the opportunity to face Manchester United gives them a chance to get revenge against the same team they lost in the fifth round in 2008. That time they were outscored 4-0 just before tying with AC Milan.
“The FA Cups was badly positioned before the Champions League – you always had decisions to make,” Le Professeur said.
His team not only seeks to make it to Wembley for the semi-finals. Winning against the Red Devils on the road is something Arsenal has not accomplished since 2006.
This time, their motivation comes mainly from being the defending champions of the FA Cup, plus coming out of their seventh win in the last Premier League games. Right now, Arsenal is in third place, one above of Man United.
“I think the mentality is very healthy. They want to do well and we will be focused on Monday night,” the 65-year-old French manager added.
