Arsenal FC: Arsene Wenger Urges Squad To 'Respond In A Strong Way' Ahead Of Galatasaray Clash

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger urged his squad to "respond in a strong way" ahead of their clash with Galatasaray in the Champions League, after they suffered a disappointing defeat against Stoke City on Saturday.

The Gunners were favourites coming into the match against the Potters, but the latter shockingly took a three-goal advantage in the first-half, which was enough of a cushion to guarantee them a 3-2 victory.

Nevertheless, the French mentor held himself accountable for the setback and vowed that his side will bounce back in Istanbul.

"We are professional people, responsible and what is important is the next game," said Wenger.

"We have to respond in a strong way and win the game - that's part of our job."

"You cannot always look for excuses. When we are down, we are down. When you have a disappointment you have to respond in a strong way - that's what competition is about."

"You also cannot guarantee to anybody that you won't lose a game. Many teams can lose at Stoke."

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Some supporters are already calling for Wenger's ouster, but the former AS Monaco overseer remains unfazed and is still determined to lead Arsenal to their campaign objectives, at the very least.

"This is my 180th Champions League game and that shows something," he continued.

"Many of those were for this club."

"We want to be judged at the end of the season. Not after every single game when emotion is very high. Let's get our stability back and see at the end of the season where we are."

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