For Arsenal fans, the Champions League knockout rounds evoke a mix of excitement and lingering disappointment. Will this finally be the year they break a quarter-final drought stretching back to 2010?

Arsenal’s upcoming clash with Porto presents the opportunity to rewrite their recent European history, and Kai Havertz could hold the key.

Arsenal's Spanish manager Mikel Arteta arrives for a press conference on the eve of their UEFA Champions League last 16 first leg football match against FC Porto at the Dragao stadium in Porto on February 20, 2024. (Photo by MIGUEL RIOPA / AFP) (Photo by MIGUEL RIOPA/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal’s Spanish manager Mikel Arteta arrives for a press conference on the eve of their UEFA Champions League last 16 first leg football match against FC Porto at the Dragao stadium in Porto on February 20, 2024. (Photo by MIGUEL RIOPA / AFP) (Photo by MIGUEL RIOPA/AFP via Getty Images)

While Arsenal enjoyed early 2000s Champions League success, including a 2006 final appearance, recent years have been defined by frustration. Since 2010, they haven’t progressed beyond the round of 16, and a period outside Europe’s top competition followed. This season, they’re determined to change the narrative and reclaim a place amongst the continental elite.

Arsenal‘s current form provides cause for optimism. While locked in a tight Premier League title race, they’ve displayed resilience and a recently unleashed attacking whirlwind. This firepower could be vital in securing a favourable first-leg result against Porto. Yet, the pressure and intensity of the Champions League knockout stage present a unique challenge

BURNLEY, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 17: Kai Havertz of Arsenal celebrates after scoring his team's fifth goal during the Premier League match between Burnley FC and Arsenal FC at Turf Moor on February 17, 2024 in Burnley, England. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
BURNLEY, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 17: Kai Havertz of Arsenal celebrates after scoring his team’s fifth goal during the Premier League match between Burnley FC and Arsenal FC at Turf Moor on February 17, 2024 in Burnley, England. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

German international Kai Havertz could be Arsenal‘s secret weapon. His recent goal against Burnley capped a brilliant performance, but his history in Portugal holds even greater significance. Havertz famously scored the match-winning goal for Chelsea in the 2021 Champions League final, which was held in Porto’s stadium. Could his positive memories of the city inspire a repeat performance?

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Despite being favourites against Porto, Arsenal faces a tough road ahead. The Champions League knockout stage is unforgiving, and even tougher opponents likely await should they advance. However, for a club hungry for European success, reaching the quarter-finals would signal a significant step forward, proof that Arsenal is on the rise again.

Arsenal‘s history suggests reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League will be a stern test. While their current form is promising, replicating it in a high-stakes, two-legged European tie is a different beast entirely. Can Arteta’s men conquer their past demons and restore Arsenal‘s Champions League pedigree?

The stage is set, and the first test awaits in Porto.

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