London, United Kingdom — Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has voiced his frustration and resolve following the team’s narrow 1-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg held at the Emirates Stadium.
The reaction came in a post-match briefing delivered shortly after the Tuesday night encounter, where Arteta acknowledged the fierce intensity of the opening minutes and PSG’s swift advantage.
Reflecting on the game’s outset, Arteta admitted that the pace and pressure early on unsettled his side. PSG capitalized in the fourth minute through Ousmane Dembélé, whose precision finish marked his 24th goal in just 25 appearances this season.
“We’re disappointed,” said Arteta. “We poured our hearts into the game. The early moments didn’t go our way, but once we settled and adjusted tactically, we matched them.”
Arteta pointed out the missed opportunities by Arsenal attackers Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard, both thwarted by PSG’s Gianluigi Donnarumma in key one-on-one situations. He also lamented the disallowed goal by Mikel Merino after a VAR review, which could have changed the tide of the match.
The Arsenal boss emphasized the magnitude of the task ahead in the return leg, describing PSG as one of Europe’s most formidable sides. “To reach the Champions League final, you need to produce something extraordinary. That’s what we aim to do in Paris.”
He acknowledged Dembélé’s early strike with grace, stating: “Sometimes, individual brilliance breaks through. We had the numbers back, but moments like that reflect top-tier talent.”
Arteta concluded with a call for composure and belief as Arsenal heads to France for the crucial second leg. He encouraged fans and players alike to trust in the process, remain united, and approach the challenge with renewed determination.
By Enoch Odesola| April 30, 2025
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