Arsenal coach disappointed with referees, proud of his players

Following the Champions League final in which Arsenal fell to PSG in a penalty shootout, coach Mikel Arteta couldn't conceal his frustration, particularly regarding the contentious calls by the officiating crew.

Arsenal manager frustrated with referees

The London side started perfectly when Kai Havertz put Arsenal ahead as early as the 6th minute. For most of the remaining match time, Arteta's players executed a disciplined defensive strategy, making it extremely difficult for the reigning European champions to approach the goal.

However, the situation changed in the 62nd minute when referee Daniel Siebert, after consulting VAR, ruled that Cristian Mosquera had committed a foul inside the penalty area. From the spot, Ousmane Dembele beat the Arsenal goalkeeper to level the score.

In extra time, Arsenal continued to argue that they were denied a penalty after Noni Madueke went down in the box. This was the detail that Arteta particularly regretted after the match.

"I have reviewed that play, and in my view, there is absolutely enough basis to award a penalty," the Spanish tactician shared. "What disappoints me is that many similar situations have been handled differently this season. The referee has the right to make his decisions, but it's hard not to question it when the treatment of that incident differed from the play that led to PSG's penalty."

Arteta considered that one of the decisive moments of the match. According to him, if Arsenal had been given that penalty at that time, the outcome of the final could have been entirely different.

"It's very hard to accept when you've had a fantastic journey throughout the season but fall in the final match in such a way. We were so close to the finish line."

Nevertheless, the 44-year-old manager didn't want his players to dwell in disappointment for too long. He emphasized that the painful emotions after defeat are inevitable, but Arsenal must turn that experience into motivation for the future. "I told the players that I am extremely proud of them. They fought with all their might for this shirt, for these fans, and for the goals we pursue. If you are in pain, face that pain. If you made mistakes, learn from them. That is the only way to become stronger."

Arteta also expressed deep gratitude to the players, coaching staff, and Arsenal supporters.

"No matter how many times I say thank you, it will never be enough. Not only for the achievements the team has made this season, but also for the wonderful moments we have shared together on that journey."

Alongside the regret, Arteta still showed respect for PSG. He acknowledged that the opponent possesses squad quality and resources sufficient to compete on every stage, and they deserve recognition for what they have shown throughout the season.

On the other side, coach Luis Enrique appeared in a completely different state of mind after helping PSG become the first team since Real Madrid to successfully defend their Champions League title.

"It's fantastic to win the Champions League two years in a row. Maybe today both teams have reasons to think they deserved the victory, but looking at the entire season, I believe PSG fully deserves this title," Enrique shared.

The Spanish strategist also did not hide his ambition to continue dominating Europe's premier competition. "We want to do it again next season. PSG has made history with two consecutive titles, and we want to keep writing new chapters."

Despite winning, Enrique had plenty of praise for Arsenal and his colleague Arteta. "They made us go through an extremely tough match. Arsenal scored early and organized their defense very well. There were times when you felt suffocated facing them. I have great respect for Arteta and what he has built."