Arsenal's Champions League aspirations came to a heartbreaking end on May 7, 2025, as they fell to Paris Saint-Germain with a 3-1 aggregate defeat in the semi-finals. The Gunners entered the second leg at Parc des Princes hoping to overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first match but were unable to capitalize on their promising start.
In the first half, Arsenal came out with determination, forcing PSG's Gianluigi Donnarumma into two remarkable saves early on. Declan Rice had a clear opportunity, heading off target from a Jurrien Timber cross, while Gabriel Martinelli and Martin Odegaard also saw their attempts thwarted by the Italian keeper.
However, it was PSG who struck first. In the 27th minute, Fabian Ruiz capitalized on a defensive lapse to fire a powerful shot from the edge of the area, doubling PSG's lead on aggregate and leaving Arsenal's hopes hanging by a thread.
Despite the setback, Arsenal continued to press forward. They had a penalty scare when Myles Lewis-Skelly was penalized for a handball after a VAR review, but David Raya came to the rescue, saving Vitinha's spot-kick. The reprieve was short-lived, as Achraf Hakimi extended PSG's advantage in the 72nd minute, curling a low shot inside the far post.
With time running out, Bukayo Saka gave Arsenal a glimmer of hope by scoring in the 76th minute after controlling a cross from Leandro Trossard. The Gunners pushed for an equalizer but ultimately fell short, with Saka later missing another chance to level the score.
“Our Champions League dream is over this season, despite a spirited showing in the French capital,” a club spokesperson stated. Arsenal finished the match with a total of 19 shots, but it was not enough to secure a place in the final.
Fans took to social media to express their frustration, particularly regarding Lewis-Skelly's performance. The 18-year-old, who made history by starting both legs of the semi-final, struggled throughout the match, losing possession six times in the first half alone. “Lewis-Skelly really struggling out there, need to get him off,” one supporter tweeted. Another added, “Poor Lewis Skelly. He’s been awful today.”
Many supporters felt that Riccardo Calafiori should have been substituted on earlier to provide a more stable presence in defense. Calafiori replaced Lewis-Skelly in the 68th minute and was noted for his efforts, creating a chance for Saka shortly after entering the pitch.
“Since Calafiori and Trossard came on, we are so much better,” one fan remarked, highlighting the impact of the substitutions. “Calafiori could have started the game,” another supporter suggested, emphasizing the need for a more experienced player in the left-back position.
Despite the disappointment in Europe, Arsenal must now refocus their efforts on the Premier League, where they are vying for Champions League qualification next season. Their next challenge comes against Liverpool, the newly-crowned champions, on Sunday, May 11, 2025. Following that, they will face Newcastle United at home on May 18 and finish the season away at Southampton on May 25.
As Arsenal reflects on their Champions League journey, the focus will shift to ensuring they secure a top-four finish in the league, a feat that would allow them to return to Europe’s elite competition next season. The Gunners showed promise throughout the tournament, but ultimately fell short at a crucial stage.
“This is one of the first times Lewis-Skelly is playing like someone of his age and experience,” a fan noted, acknowledging the young defender’s struggles while also recognizing his potential. Despite the setback, this season has been a breakthrough for Lewis-Skelly, who has proven his worth against some of Europe’s best teams.
With the season drawing to a close, Arsenal will be looking to learn from their experiences and come back stronger next season, both in the Premier League and in Europe. The disappointment of exiting the Champions League at the semi-final stage will serve as motivation for the young squad as they aim for greater success in the future.
