Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has urged his team to deliver a complete performance against Bayer Leverkusen as they seek a Champions League quarter-final place.

Mikel Arteta has warned that Arsenal must produce a complete performance when they host Bayer Leverkusen at the Emirates Stadium in the decisive second leg of their UEFA Champions League round-of-16 tie.

The contest remains finely balanced after the first leg in Germany ended 1–1. Arsenal needed a late equaliser in that match, with Kai Havertz converting an 89th-minute penalty against his former club to keep the Gunners in contention.

Speaking ahead of the return leg, Arteta stressed that many factors would need to align if Arsenal are to progress to the quarter-finals of Europe’s premier club competition.

Leverkusen head into the clash full of confidence after earning a 1–1 draw with Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich over the weekend, a performance that Arteta believes highlights the German side’s organisation and tactical discipline.

The Arsenal boss praised Leverkusen as a well-coached team with a clear playing structure, acknowledging that his side will need to be at their best in front of the home supporters to secure qualification. Arsenal will have to cope with a few injury concerns for the match. Captain Martin Ødegaard and defender Jurriën Timber are expected to miss the game.

However, Arteta confirmed that Leandro Trossard has recovered and is available for selection, while Ben White returned to training and could feature as Arsenal aim to take another step in their ambitious push for silverware this season.