Champions League heartbreak ‘just the start’ for Arsenal, says Rice

Despite the crushing disappointment of losing the Champions League final to Paris Saint-Germain on penalties, Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice insists this heartbreak is merely the 'start' of the club's European ambitions. He expressed unwavering belief that the Gunners will learn from this experience and ultimately achieve their goal of conquering Europe.

“

I congratulate PSG, especially Luis (Enrique), because I think they are the best team in the world.

Rice acknowledged the superior performance of PSG, particularly their dominance with the ball. He conceded that Arsenal were not at the same level as the French champions, especially in terms of possession and overall quality of play. PSG's victory marked their second consecutive Champions League title, solidifying their status as a European powerhouse.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta also lauded PSG, calling them the 'best team in the world' and praising their unique ability to dictate play and force opponents into uncomfortable situations. He noted that while Arsenal took an early lead through Kai Havertz, Ousmane Dembele's penalty equalizer shifted the momentum, allowing PSG to set a new record for goals scored in a single Champions League season.

“

What they are able to do with the ball, with individual actions – I’ve never seen it before.

Arteta, who has guided Arsenal back to prominence, including a Premier League title after a 22-year wait, admitted that significant work remains to compete at the highest level in Europe. He stressed the need for continuous improvement, stating that the progress made in recent years must be replicated as the level of competition escalates each season. This final marked Arsenal's second appearance in the Champions League final, their first in two decades.

“

The progress we've made in recent years must be repeated because the level of competition is increasing every season.