sports
Arsenal's progress under Arteta is clear but flaws still remain for the ultimate glory
Penalty misses from pre-season were repeated in Budapest while summer signings could help Gunners exert more control in biggest games
TL;DR
- Arsenal lost the Champions League final on penalties to Paris Saint-Germain.
- Declan Rice highlighted the team's resilience throughout a demanding 63-game season, which included three shootout losses in pre-season.
- Rice played through a persistent injury problem for months, often at reduced capacity.
- Mikel Arteta praised his players for executing the game plan, particularly after Kai Havertz's early goal.
- Arsenal's low pass-completion rate (69%) and limited successful passes compared to PSG were significant factors in their defeat.
- Individual attacking statistics, such as Bukayo Saka's performance and Martin Ødegaard's limited touches, were noted.
- The referee's management of the game, including bookings for time-wasting and interactions before penalties, was discussed.
- Arteta is considering crucial decisions regarding player recruitment, such as targeting Julián Álvarez, and improving medical and conditioning support.
- Rice expressed determination to use the pain of the loss to fuel future success in the competition.
- PSG retained their title with a "Back to Back" message displayed in Budapest.