Mikel Arteta summed the Budapest disappointment with a single word: “Pain.” Arsenal fell to Paris St‑Germain in the Champions League final, losing 1‑0 on penalties after Gabriel missed the decisive spot‑kick. The Gunners entered the match unbeaten in Europe this campaign, but PSG dominated possession and held their nerve in the shootout.

Winning the Premier League for the first time in 22 years capped a remarkable season, yet the loss leaves a bitter aftertaste. Arsenal splashed roughly £250 million on transfers last summer and have identified a midfielder, left‑winger and striker as summer targets. Coach Arteta vowed to review the squad, stress ambition and make “very fast, very smart” decisions to push the club to the next level.

Fans will still line the streets of north London on Sunday as Arsenal parade the Premier League trophy, a celebration that will not be dimmed by the European final. Former players and pundits stress that a league crown plus a Champions League final appearance marks a “great season.” The squad’s youthful core, including Bukayo Saka and 19‑year‑old Myles Lewis‑Skelly, now carries the expectation of delivering Europe’s biggest prize next campaign.