Sol Campbell, the former Arsenal and England defender, has shared his thoughts on Arsenal's upcoming Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain, expressing cautious optimism while acknowledging the strength of their opponents. In an exclusive interview, Campbell discussed Arsenal's Premier League title win, their chances in Budapest, and his own career highlights.
Arsenal's Premier League Triumph
Campbell, a key figure in Arsenal's Invincibles side of 2003-04, praised the current squad for ending a 22-year league title drought. "They've got a wonderful group of players and a great manager in Mikel Arteta, but having come so close three times on the bounce, I felt these guys needed it," he said. "The wait has been so heavy, and it was all pent up, building year after year, always coming so close but never getting over the line. That's why you saw such an outpouring of joy and togetherness."
He warned that failure to win the league could have led to a difficult summer, with top players potentially being poached by rival clubs. "They had a fantastic transfer window and bought some really top players. But if they hadn't won the league, then those vultures from other big clubs would have been circling and looking to pick off some of our best players. This could have been a really difficult summer for Arsenal."
Champions League Final Against PSG
Looking ahead to the final, Campbell acknowledged PSG's status as favourites but stressed the importance of luck. "It would be incredible if we can get a 3-2 win," he said. "But we've got to find a way to quieten down their front line. They are very good when they find space." He emphasised the need for discipline in one-on-one situations, warning against doubling up on PSG's attackers. "You start doubling up on PSG, and one or two of their players become a bit free, that creates a problem."
Campbell also referenced his own experience in the 2006 final, where he scored for Arsenal against Barcelona despite being reduced to 10 men. "When I played against Barcelona, we had our chances to take the game away from them, even with 10 men. We just needed one more goal, and that would have killed them off."
Reflections on His Career
The 51-year-old recalled the personal crisis he faced in 2006, when he walked out at half-time against West Ham due to psychological struggles. "People forget that. They don't realise how difficult that period was for me. I had injuries and I was struggling with losing my place for England and at Arsenal. So to turn it around and play in an unbelievable final showed my character."
Campbell also voiced support for VAR, particularly for decisions in the penalty area, and discussed the physicality at set-pieces in modern football. "We had blocking in my time, but if it was too blatant, then it would be penalised. As long as you're not touching the keeper, it's OK. But the trouble is there's too much going on."
England's Prospects Under Tuchel
On the national team, Campbell praised Thomas Tuchel's willingness to make tough decisions. "He's made some interesting cuts to the final squad. That's what England wanted—a manager ready to wield the axe. Whether you agree with the axings is different." He predicted England will reach the semi-finals of the upcoming tournament.
Legends Corner Documentary Series
Campbell is also launching a new documentary series, Legends Corner, which began with an interview with Spike Lee in New York. He plans to interview football legends such as Gabriel Batistuta, Luis Figo, and Dennis Bergkamp, exploring rivalry and pressure. "I want to create a community that gives a different flavour to football, and a different voice. I'm now putting all my energies into things that I like."
