Arteta Claims Arsenal Best Team In Champions League Despite Semi-final Exit

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed deep disappointment following his team's Champions League semi-final exit to Paris Saint-Germain, insisting that Arsenal had been the best team in the competition this season. Arteta highlighted the outstanding performance of PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, whom he credited as the decisive factor over the two legs, pointing to numerous early chances for Arsenal that were denied. Despite creating more opportunities and producing a high expected goals tally, Arsenal struggled to convert their dominance into goals and were punished by clinical finishing from PSG. Arteta acknowledged that winning the Champions League requires more than just good play, emphasizing the importance of execution in both penalty areas. He praised his players for their efforts under difficult circumstances, including injuries, but admitted that failing to capitalize on key moments ultimately cost them a place in the final. Arteta remained proud of his squad, framing the defeat as a painful but necessary lesson for future success.