Mikel Arteta says he is excited as Arsenal prepare to return to the Champions League next week.
Arsenal will compete in the Champions League for the first time in seven years this season, with the Gunners set to host PSV Eindhoven in their group stage opener on Wednesday evening.
The north Londoners will first look to build on an unbeaten start to the Premier League season at Everton this weekend, but Arteta admits he is relishing the chance to lead Arsenal into Europe with their Champions League opener fast approaching.
“It’s exactly the same as last year, we play every three days but it’s a different competition,” the Spaniard said at his pre-match press conference.
“It’s exciting, this is where we want to be. When you look at who we play, everyone is excited.”
Arsenal are understood to be close to announcing new contracts for club captain Martin Odegaard and defender Ben White, with Arteta confirming an extension for the former is ‘really close’.
“He’s our captain he’s a massive player for us. Really important for now and the future. We want to keep him here for a long time
“I’m always optimistic. We’re really close with him and his agent. Whenever that’s confirmed we will announce it.”
