"It's all or nothing!" – Leverkusen's Exequiel Palacios "ready for the challenge" against Arsenal
| Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images |
After a 1-1 draw against Arsenal in the first leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie last week, Bayer Leverkusen have traveled to London for Tuesday’s return leg.
Midfielder Exequiel Palacios joined head coach Kasper Hjulmand at Monday’s pre-match press conference and shared his thoughts on the tough challenge ahead.
"For us, tomorrow is like a final; it’s all or nothing," Palacios said.
"I believe in our team and our strengths. Arsenal might approach this differently to the first leg, but that doesn’t worry us. We’re full of anticipation and ready for the challenge."
Leverkusen underwent a significant overhaul last summer, with key players such as Jonathan Tah, Granit Xhaka and Florian Wirtz departing, while mostly young talents arrived to reshape the squad.
Reflecting on the team's progress this season, Palacios said:
"A few key players left, but at the same time some great talents with plenty of potential arrived. It’s an exciting time. And we still have experienced and successful players like [Alejandro] Grimaldo, Robert [Andrich] and Patrik [Schick] in the squad. It’s the right mix.
"Personally, I always want to give my all and help the team as much as I can so we can achieve our goals.”
“Personally, I always want to give my all and help the team as much as I can so we can achieve our goals."
