Declan Rice and Arsenal have booked their ticket to a second consecutive Champions League semi-final, but the midfielder made it clear the team's focus is internal, not on external noise. A gritty 0-0 draw at the Emirates Stadium against Sporting Lisbon, following Kai Havertz's crucial away goal, was enough to secure a 1-0 aggregate victory and continue their European dream.

"To go back-to-back semi-finals is an amazing achievement for this group," Rice told TNT Sports, brushing aside any criticism of the pragmatic performance. "We want to now go one step further than last year and get to the final." His message was one of defiant unity: "Positivity all the way. Who cares what people think. All that matters is what this group thinks."

The result sets up a monumental clash with Atletico Madrid for a spot in the final, offering a chance at redemption after last season's semi-final exit. However, the immediate challenge shifts dramatically to domestic matters. The stalemate did little to build momentum for what could be a Premier League title decider this Sunday, as Arsenal travel to face a Manchester City side that trails by six points but holds a game in hand.

With a recent dip in form across all competitions, Sunday's trip to the Etihad is the ultimate test of character. Rice's bullish attitude reflects the squad's mindset heading into the run-in. "How much do you want it?" he asked. "I know I’ll be ready, I know the boys will be ready, so let’s go!" For Arsenal, the pursuit of history on two fronts continues, fueled by a collective belief that drowns out any doubt.