Possibility of an Unprecedented Double
Should Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal achieve the remarkable feat of winning both the Premier League and the Champions League, they would eclipse the legendary Invincibles team and be celebrated as the finest squad in the club’s storied history, asserts former defender Martin Keown.
Despite 140 years without a Champions League title, Arsenal approaches Saturday’s final against Paris Saint-Germain radiating confidence after recently clinching the Premier League championship.
Historic Triumphs and Ambitions
The Gunners have previously secured the league and FA Cup titles in 1971, 1998, and 2002, while Arsène Wenger’s Invincibles made waves 22 years ago by completing the Premier League season unbeaten. However, Keown, who played under Wenger during those championship years, believes that a victory over the reigning champions PSG would establish the current team as Arsenal’s top-ever squad.
Keown noted, “They would be the first team to win the Champions League, solidifying their position as ‘number one,’ surpassing both the Unforgettables and the Invincibles, as Thierry Henry described.” He emphasized that the team’s legacy would be permanently etched if they succeed.
Past Disappointments and Present Opportunities
Reflecting on Arsenal’s past challenges in European competitions, Keown recalled disappointments, including the Cup Winners’ Cup loss in 1995 and a UEFA Cup defeat to Galatasaray in 2000. He remarked, “The club needs to make a significant impact in Europe,” noting that this season the squad has yet to lose a match in the Champions League, a fact of which they should take pride.
Victory in the final could bolster not just Arsenal’s legacy but also the individual confidence of the players. “A win would really solidify Arsenal’s legacy and provide substantial momentum for the players,” Keown stated.
Emotional Resonance and Team Spirit
Keown highlighted the unique motivation that anthems like Queen’s “We Are the Champions” can ignite within players, conveying that such moments can significantly enhance self-belief and determination on the pitch. This emotional resonance symbolizes the aspirations felt by the team as they approach the pivotal match.
Preparation for the Final
In celebration of their league triumph, the Arsenal squad gathered for a private event at Bacchanalia restaurant, where they toasted their achievements and took a well-deserved day off from training. Their focus now shifts to their impending journey to Hungary ahead of their match at the Puskas Arena, set for two days later.
Aiming for Transformation
As Keown prepares to commentate for the finals on TNT Sports and HBO Max, he expressed hope that the players can harness the celebration energy, transforming it into a focused determination for the match ahead. “They need to channel that celebratory spirit into a steely resolve,” he advised.
Keown stated, “This group might draw strength from the club’s history rather than being intimidated by it. The potential for greatness lies ahead, and I hope they can utilize this energy to achieve something extraordinary.” He believes that a heightened sense of urgency and intensity in training will facilitate this transformation.
