Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino remains defiant and optimistic about his team’s Champions League prospects despite their 1-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of the semi-final at the Emirates Stadium.

Merino, whose goal was ruled out for offside early in the second half, insists that Arsenal’s mentality and recent track record prove they are capable of turning the tie around in Paris.

“Paris is a tough place to go, but we have always proved that we can compete against anybody, and with all due respect, I think we are going to win the second leg,” Merino stated.

He pointed to Arsenal’s impressive away win at the Bernabeu against Real Madrid and strong performances across the Premier League as evidence of the team’s ability to succeed in hostile environments.

Merino emphasized that the setback at home does not alter the squad’s approach. “The result (at the Emirates) changes nothing because the mentality of this team is always to win, even if we were three up going to Paris,” he said.

The midfielder, who played deeper in the first leg due to Thomas Partey’s suspension, could return to a more advanced role in the return fixture with Partey available for selection.

Both Arsenal and PSG are seeking their first Champions League title, adding further significance to next week’s decisive encounter.

Merino’s confidence is echoed by manager Mikel Arteta, who stressed that the tie is only at “half-time” and that Arsenal’s improved performance after a shaky start gives them reason for optimism going into the second leg.

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