Rice’s Stunner Secures Win Over Newcastle, but Arteta Admits “Dream” Remains Unfulfilled
Arsenal’s players walked around the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, applauding their supporters after a hard-fought 1-0 win over Newcastle United—but the mood felt more subdued than celebratory. While the victory all but guarantees a second-place finish in the Premier League, it was a far cry from the title-chasing heroics of previous seasons.
Declan Rice’s brilliant second-half strike proved the difference, ensuring Arsenal avoided an unlikely collapse that could have seen them miss out on the top five. Barring a shock defeat to already-relegated Southampton next weekend—and an improbable Manchester City goal spree in their final two games—the Gunners will finish as runners-up for the third year running.
Yet, the campaign has been one of frustration. After pushing Manchester City to the wire in the last two seasons—racking up 84 and 89 points—Arsenal’s challenge this time fizzled out early. Even with a win at St. Mary’s, they can only reach 74 points, well short of their previous highs.
The disappointment was etched on Mikel Arteta’s face as he addressed the fans post-match, his voice heavy with emotion. Many supporters had already begun filing out, perhaps a sign of their own lingering frustration.
“We had a dream,” the Arsenal manager admitted. “It was to be here—or in a week’s time—lifting the big trophies for you. We couldn’t do it, for many reasons. But we can’t let that dream get blurry. We have to chase it again next season with the same belief.”
Arteta has overseen steady progress since taking charge in 2019, with Arsenal now set for a third straight Champions League campaign. But as rivals celebrate silverware—Newcastle ending their trophy drought, Crystal Palace winning the FA Cup, and even Tottenham and Manchester United contesting the Europa League final—the pressure is mounting for the Spaniard to deliver tangible success.
“We have to start creating our own history in this stadium,” Arteta said. “We’ve taken steps, but there’s much more to come. It won’t be easy, but these players have the talent. Now, we rest, finish strong at Southampton, and come back ready.”
Captain Martin Ødegaard, whose pinpoint pass set up Rice’s winner, echoed his manager’s sentiments. “We can be proud of our Champions League run, but in the league, we haven’t been good enough,” the Norwegian admitted. “We have to use this pain, learn from it, and come back stronger next season. This club deserves trophies.”
For now, Arsenal’s season ends with a sense of what might have been. The challenge for Arteta and his players is to ensure next year doesn’t end the same way.
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