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Arsenal must go for the throat in the second leg against PSG. They have no other choice.
To say that Arsenal's 2024/25 season comes down to one game against PSG in the Champions League semi-finals might seem heavy-handed, but for some, that is the feeling prior to the contest.
Having not won a trophy since 2020 when the Gunners hoisted the FA Cup, the trophy case has been collecting dust, which brings us to the Champions League second-leg clash against PSG.
Facing a 1-0 deficit after Ousmane Dembele scored inside five minutes, the Gunners will be acutely aware of the stakes in Paris, and scoring first is a non-negotiable. Yes, Arsenal acquitted themselves well at the Santiago Bernabéu against Real Madrid in the second leg of the quarter-finals, to win 2-1, and a similar performance is needed here.
The need to get of to a hot start is crucial, and not take the team 15-20 minutes to wake up as it did in the first leg with PSG having chance after chance, and had they taken them, this tie would be over.
But alas, the football gods shined on Mikel Arteta's side, and now they must head to Paris and go for the throat.
Gunners' season comes down to one game
While there are still plenty of games left, possibly including the final, but also given how the league is going, Arsenal aren't assured of a top-five finish and Champions League football next season yet, so "bigger" games could be on the horizon.
But as of now, it is all eyes on Paris and Arteta's Arsenal side, which should have Thomas Partey back in the starting side, and if they can overturn this deficit.
Yes, it is only one goal, but the threat of PSG scoring first, going up by two goals, is nightmare fuel, and something that simply can't happen.
Given this is Arsenal's last chance at winning a trophy, or risk another trophyless season under Arteta, we know the wolves will be at the door talking a lack of success.
Now, we know Arteta won't be sacked if Arsenal lose, but it will leave a sour taste in the mouth if PSG advance.
Which is why, in the biggest game under Arteta's tenure, the Gunners must be all gas, no brakes as they look to make the final and slay PSG on their own turf.