Former England and Arsenal defender Sol Campbell has offered his perspective on Arsenal's recent success in securing the Premier League title, alongside his thoughts on their upcoming Champions League final challenge. Speaking after Arsenal's 2025/26 Premier League victory, Campbell praised the current squad and manager Mikel Arteta.
Campbell, who famously played for both Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur, stated, "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." This sentiment highlights the sustained effort and near misses Arsenal experienced in previous seasons before finally clinching the league title. Their triumph marks a significant moment for the club and its fanbase, ending a long wait for top-flight glory.
Looking ahead to the Champions League final, where Arsenal are set to face Paris Saint-Germain, Campbell acknowledged the strength of their opponents. "PSG are favourites," he conceded, before adding a crucial caveat: "but sometimes you need a little luck." This insight from a player with extensive experience in high-stakes matches underscores the unpredictable nature of cup finals, where moments of fortune can often prove decisive.
The former centre-back also touched upon his own past decision to leave Arsenal, a move that surprised many at the time. While not detailing specific reasons, his comment about the team needing a change suggests a deeper understanding of team dynamics and the psychological impact of repeated near misses. This personal reflection offers a rare glimpse into the mindset of a professional footballer making a pivotal career choice.
Furthermore, Campbell made a brief comment on Thomas Tuchel, the manager of PSG, alluding to his tendency to make decisive, sometimes unexpected, changes within his squad – described as 'wielding the axe'. This observation speaks to Tuchel's reputation as a manager willing to make bold tactical and personnel decisions in pursuit of success, a factor that could play a significant role in the Champions League final.