Arsenal was eliminated from the Champions League after an intense clash with Paris Saint-Germain, but instead of showing bitterness, manager Mikel Arteta surprised many with words full of respect and admiration for the French side. In an interview with Canal+, the Basque coach expressed his sincere hope that his former club will finally lift the long-awaited European trophy on May 31 in Munich.

Although he admitted his disappointment at not reaching the final with the Gunners, Arteta had nothing but praise for PSG, especially for their goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who played a crucial role in securing their place in the final.

Donnarumma, the Wall That Stopped the Gunners

The Arsenal boss did not hold back in highlighting the performance of the Italian shot-stopper. “He was decisive. With the two saves he made in the first 20 minutes of the game, along with what he did in London, he clearly made the difference,” said Arteta, who lamented his players’ lack of efficiency in front of goal.

Arteta believes his team deserved more, but acknowledged that in the Champions League, fine margins often define the outcome. “In this competition, everything is decided in the box, and the MVP of the tie was clearly their goalkeeper,” he stated, showing both frustration and realism.

Mikel Arteta Makes a Wish for PSG

Despite the heartbreak of the elimination, Arteta showed grace and fondness for the club where he once played between 2001 and 2002. “Honestly, I hope they win it this time. I say it from the bottom of my heart,” he said.

The former midfielder, who spent a season and a half with PSG, admitted he’ll be rooting for the French side when they step onto the pitch for the final. “Now is not the time to say ‘Come on Paris’, but when the final comes, I’ll be cheering for them,” he revealed.

With his eyes already set on the future, Arteta made it clear that his project with Arsenal is far from over and that they will come back stronger next season. In the meantime, the coach joins the chorus of football fans hoping to finally see Paris Saint-Germain lift the elusive Champions League trophy.