Arsenal manager declares 'made history', journalists and former stars still consider worst-case scenario

Manager Mikel Arteta proudly states Arsenal achieved something unprecedented in club history, yet a prominent British journalist contemplates the most worrying scenario. 

Mikel Arteta: "Arsenal has written history"

Despite a 0-0 draw at Emirates Stadium in the return leg, "The Gunners" advanced with a 1-0 aggregate score after two matches. This marks a historic milestone for Arsenal as they first reached the Champions League semifinals in consecutive seasons, an achievement never seen in the club's over 140-year existence.

What did Arteta say after the match? The Spanish coach could not hide his pride for his players. "You said you wanted your team to write their own history, and they have done that. Was that the message you just delivered to them in the dressing room?", Arteta began the press conference with such a question.

"My message was gratitude towards them, I understand the effort and commitment they have put in. There is a lot of work behind this. We achieved something that has never happened in the club's 140-year history, and that shows how difficult it is. We also had to achieve it in a very special way, amid the absence of many key players, so they deserve great recognition.

I am especially happy for our fans because they have consistently supported the team today. We will have two magical nights, one in Madrid and one in London against Atletico, so I am truly proud of them."

Despite advancing, Arsenal's performance against Sporting was not truly convincing. They played quite cautiously and lacked sharpness, which worries experts when facing stronger opponents.

Former star Joe Cole believes if they continue playing like this, Arsenal could fully pay the price against Europe's top teams. Moreover, pressure also comes from domestic competitions. Arsenal lost to Man City in the League Cup final, were eliminated by Southampton from the FA Cup, and are being closely chased by Man City in the Premier League title race.

Journalist John Cross also expressed concern about Arsenal possibly ending this season empty-handed: "That is precisely the worry. I think it will be very hard to overcome that. They once had a 9-point lead, that's what is truly worrying, isn't it? Losing such a big advantage… Man City is closing in on them, they have done this two or three seasons recently, they chase and overtake. I really think Arsenal currently looks somewhat lacking in confidence."

"We talked about the possibility of a 'quadruple' about a month ago. I don't know if you can lose everything and still continue, still retain respect from the fans, still believe in yourself and be trusted. That is the bigger issue.", John Cross added.

Currently, Arsenal's leadership is reportedly set to reassess Arteta's situation this summer, as the team still has opportunities to make a significant mark in this season's Champions League.