Arsenal returns to a Champions League final twenty years later

Published on May 06, 2026 | Translated from Spanish

Mikel Arteta's Arsenal has broken a two-decade drought by qualifying for the Champions League final. On Tuesday, a goal from Bukayo Saka was enough to beat Atlético Madrid 1-0. The London side will seek the title against the winner of PSG-Bayern Munich, in a milestone that returns the Gunners to the European elite. 🏆

Arsenal players celebrate with Saka in the background, embracing under red and white fireworks.

Arteta's tactical evolution in the offensive system ⚽

Arteta has built a solid block based on high pressing and quick transitions. Against Atlético, the 4-3-3 scheme prioritized the mobility of Saka and Martinelli to overwhelm defensive lines. The use of Odegaard as a playmaker freed up interior spaces, while Rice and Partey swept in midfield. The goal came after a recovery in the opponent's half, showing the effectiveness of the team's work without the ball.

Simeone's karma and the curse of the lock 😅

El Cholo Simeone was biting his nails again at the Metropolitano, but this time the lock didn't hold. Saka slipped through the gap left by the red-and-white defense, proving that not even the most parked bus can withstand an English dribble. Meanwhile, in Madrid they are already looking for culprits: from the kit man to the one who set the grass too high. Next time, maybe they'll try an 11-0-0 formation.