Mikel Arteta Reflects on Champions League Loss and Looks Ahead to Arsenal's Future
Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal manager, has opened up about the lasting pain from the club’s Champions League final loss to Paris Saint-Germain in 2026. Although Arsenal ended their long wait for a Premier League title last season, the defeat in Europe still weighs heavily on him and the team.
Budapest Heartbreak Still Haunts Arsenal
Last May, Arsenal won their first Premier League title in 22 years, breaking a run of three straight second-place finishes. Yet just 11 days later, that joy was overshadowed by a cruel outcome in Budapest. The Gunners drew 1-1 with PSG in the Champions League final but lost in a tense penalty shootout. Paris Saint-Germain secured consecutive European trophies, leaving Arsenal to grapple with a bitter near victory.
The Sting of Defeat Remains
In an interview with The Athletic, Arteta compared the loss to a permanent mark. Echoing words once spoken by former manager Arsene Wenger, he said, "I still have the scar, like Arsene says. I still have that poison in my veins." He believes this feeling must remain because it teaches valuable lessons and fuels motivation for everyone involved at the club.
Regarding his recent contract extension, Arteta shared his strong connection to Arsenal. "It’s a privilege to commit my future to the club and to continue working with exceptional people who want the best for Arsenal. This club is unique, its character and the way it makes you feel, and I have a great sense of privilege that our journey together will continue."
Arteta’s Long-Term Vision for Arsenal
Arsenal rewarded Arteta’s work since December 2019 with a new contract running until 2030. This deal makes him the highest-paid manager in England’s top flight, earning nearly £20 million annually. With his future secured, Arteta is focused on building the club’s progress across all areas.
Asked about managing expectations, tactics, and recruitment for the coming years, he responded enthusiastically: "Globally, with our supporters? Great. How are we going to build the next three squads? Great. How the rules of the game are going to change us, and how we’re going to stay ahead of that to take advantage? Great.""This will happen if every single day we look after what we built. We make it a little bit better, like software that is upgrading and upgrading. When can it stop? Infinite.""We have already built a special bond and created memories that will last a lifetime, and what is so exciting is that this is only the beginning of what we can achieve together."
Recovering from Recent Setbacks
Arsenal face challenges after suffering a 3-0 loss to Brighton just before the international break. They return to Premier League action against Leeds United this Saturday, aiming to regain momentum as they defend their league title.
Afterwards, attention will shift back to Europe. Lille will visit the Emirates Stadium in the Champions League, kicking off a demanding schedule that will test the squad’s depth and resilience across all competitions.
- Premier League Match: Arsenal vs Leeds United, 10 October 2026, 14:30
- Ligue 1 Match: Paris Saint-Germain vs Le Mans, 10 October 2026, 21:45
