Mikel Arteta delivers stirring speech to Arsenal fans after Newcastle win seals Champions League spot

WATCH NOW: Mikel Arteta previews Arsenal clash with Newcastle

Jack Otway

By Jack Otway


Published: 18/05/2025

- 18:46

Updated: 18/05/2025

- 18:56

The Spaniard has opened up following the fixture at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday

Mikel Arteta has spoken out after Arsenal beat Newcastle 1-0 on Sunday to secure Champions League qualification for next season.

The Gunners haven't been at their best this term and struggled to find their usual rhythm during the contest at the Emirates Stadium.


However, despite Arsenal being subdued, they claimed all three points courtesy of a stunning strike from Declan Rice in the 55th minute.

The England international's whipped effort came after good work from Martin Odegaard, while also dealing a blow to Newcastle's own hopes of Champions League qualification.

Mikel Arteta Arsenal

Mikel Arteta has spoken out after Arsenal beat Newcastle 1-0 on Sunday to secure Champions League qualification for next season

REUTERS/PA

Arteta has now spoken to Arsenal fans on the field following the fixture.

He insisted the Gunners will continue to chase the 'dream' of winning major trophies, despite having nothing to show for their efforts this term.

"We had a dream, it was to be here or in a week's time and bring the big trophies to you guys and we couldn't do it for many circumstances," he said.

"We need to make sure that chasing a dream doesn't get blurry and make sure we chase the dream with positivity and enthusiasm for next season.

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"We have to start creating our own history here in this stadium and we started this season. There is much more to come and it won't be easy. These players have the talent.

"We need to rest and finish at Southampton and then go on holiday.

"Any other club in this position would finish in a position that we cannot even dream of."

Arsenal captain Odegaard has also reacted to the fixture.

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Arsenal Declan Rice NewcastleArsenal star Declan Rice netted a fine goal against Newcastle on SundayREUTERS

The Norwegian admits that the hosts must win trophies next term, having last secured silverware all the way back in 2020.

"We can be proud of what we've done, especially in the Champions League, we had a great run there and some great experiences," he said.

"We have to accept we haven't been good enough in the league, but we have to take all experiences, good and bad, take them into next season and be better.

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"Unbelievable [Champions League], those are the nights we live for. To play here at home with that support.

"Great game and hopefully we can have many moments like that next season. Unbelievable to feel that and the love from the fans.

"We want to thank the fans. We always feel the love, the support we have is amazing so thank you. We have to use all experiences from this season, to feel that pain of not winning and take it to next season and come back stronger and bring the club some trophies next season."

Arsenal Mikel Arteta

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta wants his side to target trophies next season following their narrow win over Newcastle

REUTERS

Arsenal will close their Premier League campaign against Southampton on Sunday.

As for Newcastle, Howe's men will attempt to secure Champions League qualification when they face Everton at St James' Park (4pm).

The result means Arsenal are all but sure to finish second. Chelsea and Aston Villa also occupy the Champions League qualification spots at the current moment in time.