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Arsenal’s Champions League run came to an abrupt end in Paris, where a 2-1 loss to PSG sealed their semi-final exit and extended Mikel Arteta’s five-year wait for silverware.
Despite starting brightly at the Parc des Princes, the Gunners were undone by goals from Fabian Ruiz and Achraf Hakimi. Bukayo Saka’s late strike offered little consolation, as Arsenal fell short over two legs, having already lost 1-0 at home.
Long Throws, Short Returns
One of the more baffling takeaways from the defeat was Arsenal’s reliance on long throws. They launched 11 into the PSG box—the highest number under Arteta—but failed to convert any into goals. It nearly paid off early when Gabriel Martinelli connected with Thomas Partey’s throw, only to be denied by Gianluigi Donnarumma. Beyond that, the strategy yielded little.
Set-Piece Specialist or Soft Spot?
Set pieces have been both a strength and a glaring weakness this season. While Nicolas Jover’s routines in attack have brought goals, nearly 39% of Arsenal’s league goals conceded have come from set plays—an alarming stat that undermines their progress.
Arteta’s Semi-Final Curse Continues
Since lifting the FA Cup in 2020, Arsenal have consistently fallen at the semi-final stage. The defeat to PSG adds to a list that includes Villarreal, Liverpool, and Newcastle, with just two goals scored across those ties. The pattern suggests more than just bad luck—it points to a psychological block or tactical shortfall in high-stakes moments.
Domestic Disappointment Adds to the Pain
Things haven’t been much better in the Premier League. Liverpool sealed the title with four games to go, and Arsenal’s recent 2-1 loss to Bournemouth summed up a season full of missed opportunities. Dropping 21 points from winning positions has left fans frustrated with the team’s inability to close out matches.
Arteta: “It Depends”
After the PSG defeat, Arteta was asked if he believes his side is close to winning trophies. “It depends,” he said, pointing to the progress made in recent years, but also acknowledging the harsh reality: performances haven’t been enough without silverware.
What’s Next?
Arsenal close out the season with fixtures against Liverpool, Newcastle, and Southampton. Pride may be all that’s left to play for—but for Arteta, every match is another chance to prove his project hasn’t stalled.
