Is the pressure off now Arsenal have won the league? Is this a free hit? Mikel Arteta dismissed such notions with a firm look, showing Arsenal’s intense focus on the Champions League final. This is not merely an additional match; it’s a chance to etch their place in history. With the Premier League victory still fresh, Arsenal now sets their sights on another accolade.
“The ambition is bigger,” Arteta stated during his pre-final press conference in Budapest. “We have won one title. We desire another. That’s all we’ve talked about, aiming for greater milestones. The players’ desire is at its peak.” His words reflect a team not resting on their laurels but seeking more.
Arteta’s motivational speeches resonate within the team. The match against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) presents tough competition, yet Arteta views their underdog status as an opportunity for precision and impact. He emphasized, “They are defending the trophy, but we’re here to challenge them. This is our moment to create new club history. To achieve that, clear-thinking, courage, and relentless winning desire are essential.”
Arsenal arrived in Budapest with enthusiasm after winning the Premier League for the first time in 22 years, sparking celebrations globally. Fans have flocked to Budapest, with or without tickets, to experience the dream firsthand. The team prepared in a relaxed manner, blending calmness with intense focus, embodying their current team spirit.
Arteta faces critical team selection decisions with only Ben White ruled out due to injury. Despite this, the squad stands ready to contribute. Arsenal’s unity has been their strength this season. Bukayo Saka emphasized the deep connection among players, vital in overcoming past challenges, and essential for this match. “We are very close,“ Saka noted. “We’re ready to make history.” Saka, who has grown with the club, acknowledges Arsenal’s journey. “We were far from today’s level,” he commented. “Mikel focused on restoring Arsenal’s stature. It’s satisfying to say we’ve achieved that.”
Arsenal approaches the final against PSG, a club with ample experience in this competition. However, concerns about the minutes played by Arsenal compared to a rotating PSG squad don’t trouble Saka. “We’ve had a week’s recovery for this,” he said. “This game hinges on critical moments, not time played.”
Captain Martin Odegaard described the match as a lifelong dream. For most players, including himself, this is an unprecedented experience. “I’ve dreamed of this since childhood,” Odegaard said. “The aspiration has always been there — even more so in these weeks — to play and win this final.” He emphasized that winning the league hasn’t shifted their focus. “Our mindset remains unchanged. We must harness the positive energy and experiences from our journey thus far.”