Arsenal's Premier League Victory Sets Up Champions League Final vs PSG – Sol Campbell Weighs In

Arsenal clinched the 2025-26 Premier League on 28 May, ending a 22-year drought since the unbeaten 2003-04 “Invincibles” campaign. The triumph secures a place in the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest on 2 June.

The Guardian

The Gunners’ last league title came in 2004; they have reached the Champions League final only once before, in 2006, losing to Barcelona after a goalkeeper dismissal left them with ten men. Their 2003-04 season remains the only unbeaten top-flight campaign in English football. In the current campaign, Arsenal conceded the fewest goals (31) and recorded the highest points total (92). PSG, the tournament favourites, previously squandered a 5-2 lead against Bayern Munich in the semi-final, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities.

The Guardian

Former defender Sol Campbell, a member of the 2004 Invincibles, provides analysis. Manager Mikel Arteta leads Arsenal. Paris Saint-Germain’s attack, though unnamed, is widely regarded as the tournament’s most potent.

The Guardian

Campbell stresses that Arsenal must avoid over-doubling on PSG forwards, as excessive marking opens space for counter-attacks. He highlights the need for disciplined one-on-one defending and urges the team to “strike while the iron’s hot.” He predicts a tight match, suggesting a 3-2 scoreline could be “incredible,” and notes that “a little luck” may tip the balance.

The Guardian

Campbell acknowledges longstanding criticism from Tottenham supporters, who have vilified him since his 2001 move to Arsenal. He also critiques recent VAR decisions, arguing that inconsistent rulings have influenced key fixtures, including Arsenal’s injury-time draw with West Ham that affected relegation battles.

The Guardian

• “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,” — Sol Campbell, former Arsenal defender

The Guardian

• “You don’t know when you’re going to have that same beautiful run to the final.” — Sol Campbell

The Guardian

• “It would be incredible if we can get a 3-2 win,” — Sol Campbell

The Guardian

The Champions League final will be played in Budapest on 2 June 2026. Campbell’s “Legends Corner” series will debut its next episode in July, featuring interviews with Gabriel Batistuta and Luís Figo, followed by an African tour of former stars later in the year.

The Guardian