Oleksandr Zinchenko (foto: Official TW/IG/FB account)
Oleksandr Zinchenko has called on Arsenal to produce their finest display as they prepare for a high-stakes Champions League quarter-final showdown with Real Madrid.
The Gunners secured their place in the last eight for the second consecutive season but now face one of the most daunting tasks in European football, with the second leg set to take place at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Reacting to the draw, Zinchenko admitted to feeling mixed emotions after Real Madrid edged past Atletico Madrid in a penalty shootout.
"It was a bit of a strange feeling. Atletico were unlucky, especially with that Julian Alvarez penalty. But both teams – Real and Atletico – are exceptional. It will be an amazing experience for us," he said.
The Ukrainian defender underlined the importance of maintaining full concentration throughout both legs.
"In this competition, particularly at this stage, you can't afford to relax for a second. The quality and demands of the teams are immense. If you let your guard down, even for a moment, they will punish you," he warned.
With Mikel Arteta’s side aiming to make history in Europe, Zinchenko summed up the challenge ahead.
"To play against Real Madrid, you have to deliver the best performance of your life. That's the reality at this level."