Arteta declares Arsenal ready to dethrone PSG of Champions League crown

Mikel Arteta is adamant Arsenal are ready to take the Champions League trophy away from holders Paris Saint-Germain.

Twenty years on from their only previous Champions League final against Barcelona in Paris, and fresh from becoming Premier League champions, Arsenal have another chance to become Europe’s best when they face PSG in Budapest on Saturday night.

Arteta, a former PSG player, began his career in the men’s game with the Parisians after leaving Barcelona’s La Masia academy as a teenager. Now, he stands one match away from delivering the trophy that Arsenal have yet to win.

“We are here because we have earned the right to be here and are ready to compete for the trophy,” said Arteta.

“PSG are champions and here to defend their trophy and we are here to take it away from them.”

The final comes less than a week after Arteta finally got his hands on the Premier League trophy following Arsenal’s first title success in 22 years.

Any suggestions of the pressure easing because of domestic success was dismissed by the manager.

“No,” he said. “The ambition is bigger. We have won one and now we want the second one and keep aiming for more.”

Arteta also delivered a significant injury boost by confirming defender Jurrien Timber is available despite recent fitness concerns.

One of Arsenal’s most consistent players prior to his injury in March, Timber has returned to training at exactly the right moment.

“Yeah, he’s fit,” said Arteta.

Asked if he was fit enough to start, the Arsenal manager replied simply: “Yes.”

Noni Madueke is also available, with Ben White the only member of the squad unavailable.