Mikel Arteta summed the Champions League final loss to Paris Saint‑Germain with a single word: pain. After an unbeaten run in the competition, the Gunners fell in a penalty shootout in Budapest, Gabriel missing his spot‑kick. Despite the disappointment, Arsenal will board an open‑top bus on Sunday to celebrate their first Premier League title in 22 years.

Arteta had promised to use the league triumph as a springboard for European glory, yet PSG dominated possession, holding 75% and dictating play. The Gunners showed resolve but lacked cutting edge in attack. In the summer they splashed roughly £250m on new faces and are reportedly targeting a midfielder, a left winger and a striker to close the gaps.

Fans will still line the streets for the title parade, with pundits insisting the heartbreak does not erase an otherwise stellar campaign. Former players note that Arsenal remain one of Europe’s top sides and that the squad, now anchored by Bukayo Saka, has a pool of promising youngsters ready to step up. The club will review the squad this summer and decide on further investment.