Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, has disclosed the reason his team remains the sole Premier League club still competing in the Champions League.

Arsenal has advanced to the Champions League semi-finals, where they will confront Atletico Madrid after a goalless draw against Sporting CP at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday evening.

The focus now shifts back to the Premier League as Arsenal prepares to face Manchester City on Sunday in a match that will have a significant impact on the outcome of this season’s championship.

Arteta stated that his team is the only English club remaining in the competition due to their ability to navigate the challenges posed by a demanding schedule.

“This is why we are the only English team left in the competition; the league and its schedule take a toll on you, making it very challenging to achieve what we have accomplished,” Arteta informed reporters following the match, which was marked by another subpar performance from Arsenal.

“We are not without flaws; we must improve in certain areas, that is clear, and we recognize that, but there is merit in what these players have achieved, and they truly deserve it.

“Declan [Rice] was exhausted yesterday. He had no opportunity to play today; he was not feeling well at all, yet he managed to play 94 minutes at the level he has shown.

“Piero [Hincapie] is in the same situation; every single player is giving their utmost to contribute and perform at their best, and I sincerely appreciate that from the team.”