Tottenham supporters will no doubt enjoy Ivan Perisic’s subtle jab at Arsenal ahead of their Champions League clash, as the former Spurs winger delivered a pointed remark about the Gunners’ inability to get over the line.
Tottenham Hotspur have been absent from the UEFA Champions League for the past three seasons, a frustrating reality for a club that reached the final in 2019 before falling short against Liverpool.
Their European pedigree has taken a hit, and this season, their only route back into the competition would be by winning the Europa League.
However, with their inconsistent league form leaving them languishing in mid-table, Spurs have plenty to prove if they are to reclaim their place among Europe’s elite.
Ivan Perisic says Arsenal are always missing something
While the Lilywhites continue their European rebuild, their north London rivals Arsenal are gearing up for a Champions League round of 16 clash this week.
The Gunners will face PSV, a side that navigated past Liverpool in the league phase before eliminating Juventus in the playoff rounds.
It is far from a straightforward task for Mikel Arteta’s men, who have struggled to maintain momentum in their domestic title chase and, more notably, have never lifted a European trophy in their history.
MORE SPURS STORIES
Former Tottenham winger Ivan Perisic did not hold back when assessing Arsenal’s European credentials.
Speaking ahead of the clash, as relayed by the Daily Mail, he remarked: “It is going to be tough. They are a really good team. Young team, good coach. But over the last few years, they are always missing something to step up and win something.
“We have to be fully prepared, then we have a good chance to beat them. I believe in our team, and we have to play at our best. When you hear the Champions League anthem, it gives something special.”
Tottenham would love European silverware bragging rights
While Arsenal’s silverware hopes this season hinge on either a Liverpool collapse in the league or an unlikely Champions League triumph, Spurs have a more tangible opportunity to end their long trophy drought.
Still in the Europa League, Ange Postecoglou’s men know that lifting the trophy would not only bring long-awaited success but also secure them a Champions League return.
However, the road ahead is anything but easy. Their next hurdle comes on Thursday when they face a tricky round of 16 tie against AZ Alkmaar, a side more than capable of causing an upset.