Arsenal will face Leverkusen in the Champions League round of 16, according to the draw results. If they overcome the German side, Arteta's team could meet Bodo/Glimt or Sporting in the quarterfinals. Arsenal remains in contention across all four competitions. The London club currently leads the Premier League, will play Mansfield Town in the FA Cup fifth round on 7/3, and will battle Man City in the League Cup final on 22/3.

Manager Mikel Arteta during Arsenal's training session on 27/2. Photo: Arsenal FC

In a press conference before the Premier League round 28 match against Chelsea, Arteta expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming challenges. However, he stressed the team must focus on each game rather than looking too far ahead. "The team's consistent performance brings hope and positive thoughts", he said. "But we can only focus on the present. All our energy will be dedicated to the next match".

When asked about the possibility of winning a quadruple, the Spanish manager admitted it was not a primary focus. "Not much", Arteta stated. "I am not focused on the final result, but on what we need to do to maintain our current development trajectory. Has any team won a quadruple yet? That shows how difficult it is. Let's go game by game and try to be in the final stages of every competition, then see what happens".

Talk of a quadruple emerged after Arsenal crushed Tottenham 4-1 in Premier League round 27. Before that, they disappointed by drawing bottom-of-the-table Wolves 2-2 and Brentford 1-1.

Arteta revealed he is learning to control his emotions better during this crucial final phase. "If you go up and down with results every day, you will go crazy. You cannot be at your best in that state. I try to stay stable, always look at things in a broader context, and maintain positivity", the 43-year-old coach expressed.

Champions League 2025-2026 round of 16 draw results and bracket. Photo: UEFA

Former player Martin Keown believes Arsenal is gradually becoming a major force in European competition. After a 6-year absence, the London club has returned to the Champions League in the last three seasons and consistently advanced deep. "Arsenal is formidable in Europe. The last two seasons were the quarterfinals and semifinals, hopefully this year they can take another step", Keown said.

The former English defender also warned his old club not to underestimate Leverkusen. The Bundesliga side impressed by winning 2-0 away against Man City in the group stage and overcoming Olympiacos with an aggregate score of 2-0 in the play-off round.

"I think this will be a difficult tie. Leverkusen has performed well against English teams and secured away wins. Arsenal is in good form, but they must not be complacent", Keown commented.

According to the bracket, if they advance, Arsenal could face strong opponents such as Barca, Atletico Madrid, Newcastle, or Tottenham in the semifinals. "You can dream of the final, but you have to take it one step at a time. Looking at the list of remaining teams, challenges are everywhere. Therefore, focus on the next match", Keown concluded.

Hong Duy (according to ESPN, Arsenal.com)