Bukayo Saka says that Arsenal's demolition of Champions League holders Real Madrid was a declaration of intent.
The Gunners have qualified for the third time in their history, after 2005-06 and 2008-09, for the semi-final of the Champions League, with this their first performance in this phase for 16 years.
Saka missed a fine in the first half, but scored the opening goal of Arsenal in their 2-1 victory in the Santiago Bernabeu to seal a 5-1 total victory, with Gabriel Martinelli getting the late winner on Wednesday after Vinicius Junior Parity recovered in the night.
In general, it is the 30th time that an English side has been taken to the semi -final in the competition, where only Spanish teams (38) have done this more.
They will now be confronted with Paris Saint-Germain for a place in the final for a place in the second time, after they were lost in Barcelona in 2006.
“We have shown that we can play in Europe and beat one of the best teams in the world, at home and away. Very proud of this team,” Saka told TNT Sports.
“Tonight was a big explanation and I am so happy for everyone.”
When Saka's chipped penalty in Panenka-style was saved by Thibaut Courtois early with the score 0-0, it felt like a potentially crucial moment, but Arsenal was comfortable because they easily consolidated their 3-0 first-advantage.
Saka also responded well and was directly involved in 15 goals in 16 Champions League performances for Arsenal (nine goals, six assists).
Arsenal is unbeaten in their four games against Madrid in the European competition (W3 D1), while only one party once gone more consecutive games against Los Blancos in the European Cup/Champions League without losing (Seven for Lyon, September 2005-Febrari 2011).
“It can happen. I tried something, but it didn't work. I was convinced that I would score tonight,” said Saka.
“I learn at any time. Tonight I am more focused on enjoying the victory, and then I will take a good look.”
PSG, who disabled in the last 16 and Aston Villa in the quarterfinals in the last 16 and Aston villa, will be a formidable obstacle for Arsenal, who will be at home in the first stage of the semi-final at the end of April.
“I see them playing with much more confidence. We will be ready and it will be a very good match,” Saka added.
Mikel Arteta became the 10th different Spanish manager who reached a semi -final of the Champions League, with only Italy (11) doing more different coaches in the history of the competition.
Arteta described the victory over Real Madrid as one of the best moments of his career.
“I am really proud of the players,” said the Spaniard. “After two or three minutes you realize that everything can happen.”
Looking ahead to the collision against PSG, who beat Arsenal 2-0 earlier this season in the group stage, Arteta said they are an incredible team.
“They are now a different team and are currently an incredible run, and I know the manager very well,” said Arteta, who was at PSG during his gaming career.
“But we showed tonight that we can compete against every team.”