SBOTOP: Semifinal Curse Continues for Arsenal Under Arteta

Arsenal hopes of a historic Champions League final appearance were dashed once again, as they suffered a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain in the second leg of their semifinal clash. The loss, which sealed a 3-1 aggregate scoreline in favor of the French champions, marked yet another bitter chapter in Arsenal’s recent history under manager Mikel Arteta.

Having entered the tie trailing by a single goal from the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal looked to turn things around at the Parc des Princes. But their ambitions were quickly dealt a blow. First-half strikes from Fabian Ruiz and Achraf Hakimi left the Gunners chasing shadows for most of the night. Although Bukayo Saka managed to pull one back late in the game, it was little more than a consolation as PSG cruised into the final.

This result not only ended Arsenal’s European dream this season—it also amplified a worrying pattern: repeated failures at the semifinal stage of major competitions.

A Disturbing Semifinal Trend for Arsenal

Arsenal’s exit against PSG marked the fourth consecutive semifinal in which they have fallen short. What’s more alarming is the manner of those defeats. Since 2021, the Gunners have failed to make a single final despite repeatedly placing themselves within touching distance.

The downward spiral began with their lackluster exit against Villarreal in the 2020–21 UEFA Europa League semifinals, where they were held to a goalless draw at home after losing the first leg. The following season, they fell to Liverpool in the EFL Cup semifinal, again failing to score over two legs.

Fast forward to this campaign, Arsenal were also eliminated by Newcastle United in the EFL Cup semifinals, losing both legs 2-0. And now, with PSG delivering another semifinal blow, Arsenal’s record in their last eight semifinal legs reads dismally: six losses, two draws, and just two goals scored. For a club of Arsenal’s stature, that is a haunting statistic.

Arteta’s Trophy Drought Deepens

Under Mikel Arteta’s stewardship, Arsenal have made visible strides in terms of style and identity, but silverware remains elusive. Their last major trophy was the FA Cup in 2020—ironically, the same year Arteta took charge permanently. Since then, despite consistent top-four finishes and long cup runs, the Gunners have found themselves stumbling when it matters most.

The pressure on Arteta is beginning to mount, not just from fans but potentially from within the club hierarchy. With the current season likely ending in another Premier League runner-up finish and another year without a trophy. Questions are being raised about whether Arteta can guide this talented group to glory.

Tactical Shifts and Injury Setbacks

Part of Arsenal’s struggles this season can be traced back to injuries to key players. Several mainstays of the squad—particularly in defense and midfield. Were sidelined at crucial moments, forcing Arteta to experiment with more direct and vertical styles of play. While these adjustments occasionally bore fruit, they also left the team vulnerable in transitions, especially against top-quality sides like PSG.

Against PSG, Arsenal showed flashes of creativity and urgency, but it wasn’t sustained. They created a few promising chances, but their finishing lacked the clinical edge required at this level.

What’s Next for Arsenal?

With yet another season set to end in disappointment, Arsenal’s leadership must now take a hard look at the trajectory of the team. Arteta has helped build a solid foundation, but the inability to deliver trophies in high-pressure situations remains a glaring concern.

Do they continue backing the Spaniard and his long-term vision? Or do they begin exploring other options that might bring immediate success?

Regardless of the decision, one thing is clear: Arsenal fans are growing restless. The team’s progress needs to translate into tangible success. Otherwise, this golden generation of Gunners could risk being remembered not for what they won, but for what they could have won.

ALSO READ :