Arsene Wenger has expressed his belief that Arsenal are deserving winners of the Champions League as they prepare to face Paris Saint-Germain in Saturday's final in Budapest. The legendary former Gunners manager, now FIFA's head of global development, hopes to see Mikel Arteta bring the trophy back to the Emirates Stadium, describing it as the missing piece in the club's illustrious history.
Wenger's Emotional Connection
Wenger, who spent 22 years at Arsenal's helm, led the club to the Champions League final in 2006, where they lost 2-1 to Barcelona after going down to ten men following Jens Lehmann's early red card. Sol Campbell headed Arsenal ahead, but an inspired Henrik Larsson helped Barcelona turn the game around with goals from Samuel Eto'o and Juliano Belletti. Now, Wenger is desperate to see his former side finally lift the trophy.
A Fifty-Fifty Contest
Speaking to UEFA, Wenger acknowledged the challenge posed by Luis Enrique's PSG, the reigning champions. "I still believe it's fifty-fifty in the final, and if I had to bet, I would bet on Arsenal more than on Paris Saint-Germain," he said. "I feel the club deserves it, this season deserves it and the consistency of the team deserves it."
A History of Near Misses
Wenger reflected on Arsenal's journey in European competition. "When I arrived at Arsenal, the club had very little Champions League history. Then we had 20 consecutive years of qualification, and now the crown of that history would be to become champions," he added. "I think Arsenal have slowly built a history that now allows them to win it. I also feel the time has come for Arsenal to dominate the Premier League consistently."
Arteta's Achievement
Under Mikel Arteta, Arsenal have already secured the Premier League title this season, and a Champions League triumph would cap a remarkable campaign. Wenger praised Arteta's work, saying, "I want this trophy to go to the Emirates because it's missing there. We touched it before — we were thirteen minutes away from winning it — so you want it to happen this time."
The final promises to be a tightly contested affair, with both teams boasting formidable talent. Arsenal will rely on their Premier League-winning form, while PSG will look to defend their crown. For Wenger, the occasion is deeply personal, as he hopes to see his former club finally secure the European glory that eluded him during his tenure.
