French Publication Criticizes ‘Defensive Masterclass’ in Final Loss
Arsenal’s approach in the Champions League final has drawn sharp criticism from French sports publication L’Equipe, which declared the team ‘deserved to lose’ after employing what the outlet described as a ‘double-decker bus’ defensive strategy. The team’s offensive performance was labeled a ‘sorry mess’ in the aftermath of their penalty shootout defeat to PSG.
L’Equipe delivered a scathing assessment of Mikel Arteta’s tactics, suggesting the manager had ‘rejected his Barcelona legacy’ by prioritizing defense over attacking flair. The publication noted that Arsenal’s sole shot on target during the match was Kai Havertz’s early sixth-minute goal. Throughout the game, the Gunners maintained only 25 percent possession, a statistic that underscored their rigid defensive posture.
‘Parked the Double-Decker Bus’
In its analysis, L’Equipe vividly described the team’s strategy: “For a long time, it seemed PSG would lose this final without even really playing, rendered powerless, locked down by the Gunners, who threw the key into the Danube before parking their double-decker bus in front of David Raya’s goal.”
The publication questioned the viability of winning the Champions League with such a limited attacking output. “Can you be European champion with only one shot on target, a constantly low block, and 25% possession? Perhaps, and even certainly. But it’s quite fortunate that it didn’t happen this Saturday night,” L’Equipe commented.
Despite scoring early, Arsenal appeared content to protect their lead. This cautious approach ultimately proved detrimental, as PSG equalized through an Ousmane Dembele penalty before winning the shootout 4-3. The missed spot-kicks by Eberechi Eze and Gabriel proved costly, dashing Arsenal’s hopes of securing a league and European double.
Player Ratings Reflect Disappointment
L’Equipe’s notoriously harsh player ratings saw six Arsenal players receive scores of five or lower. Leandro Trossard and Cristian Mosquera were singled out for particularly low marks, both awarded a three out of ten. Trossard was described as ‘anonymous’ and ‘isolated,’ with his performance stats showing he lost possession 13 times and won only two of his six duels.
Mosquera was implicated in the penalty incident that leveled the score and reportedly ‘miraculously’ avoided a second yellow card. Declan Rice and Kai Havertz emerged as Arsenal’s highest-rated players, each receiving a six.
Managerial Tactics Under Scrutiny
Mikel Arteta himself received a rating of four. L’Equipe expressed disapproval of the manager’s emphasis on defensive duties, suggesting it compromised the attacking potential of key players. “It’s regrettable that he somewhat sacrificed players like Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard by demanding significant defensive effort,” the publication stated.
While the Champions League trophy remains elusive, Arsenal can look forward to a Premier League title parade on Sunday. The squad, though visibly dejected after their European final loss, will have the opportunity to celebrate their domestic success with fans in Islington.
