"Arsenal didn't even think about playing football" UCL winner Neves delivers direct blow to 'anti-football': "Only PSG played football"

*This content was translated by AI.

Joao Neves (22), the Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) midfielder who emerged as the ultimate victor in the "War of the Stars," criticized Arsenal's tactics.

Global football specialist "Goal.com" reported on the 31st (Korean time) that "Neves pointed out Arsenal's approach in the final, claiming that only one team attempted to play attacking football throughout the match."

PSG drew 1-1 with Arsenal after extra time in the "2025-2026 UEFA Champions League (UCL)" final held at Puskas Arena in Budapest, Hungary, and won 4-3 in the penalty shootout.

With this victory, PSG, which reached the pinnacle of the UCL for the first time in club history under manager Luis Enrique last season, lifted the trophy for two consecutive years. Moreover, they completed a double (double crown) by winning both Ligue 1 and the UCL this season. In contrast, Arsenal, which won the English Premier League (EPL) for the first time in 22 years, reached the final for the first time in 20 years but had to settle for the runner-up position.

After the match, Neves targeted Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta's tactics in an interview with French channel M6. He criticized Arsenal's passive game management throughout the 120th minutes, stating, "The only team that wanted to play football today was PSG. We were more than deserving of the victory."

He continued, "I am happy to have become European champion for the second time. It is not just about winning, but about being able to play alongside these wonderful teammates, staff, and management. My move to PSG was the best decision of my life. I love everything about this place," as he expressed his joy at winning the championship.

He also shed the pressure of being the defending champion. Neves said, "This year, we had to defend the champion title, so it was much harder physically and mentally than when we won the first title. We are now part of PSG's history," expressing his pride.

During the interview, a pleasant incident also occurred. PSG president Luis Campos suddenly appeared and was carried on Neves' back, sharing the joy of the victory. The scene showcased the strong bond between the team's leadership and the players.

Neves burst into laughter at Campos' surprise appearance and concluded the interview by saying, "We are all happy. I want to go back to the locker room quickly and celebrate the victory with my teammates."

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*This content was translated by AI.