Ian Wright says Arsenal Women have “saved the club” after historic Champions League triumph over Barcelona

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Arsenal legend Ian Wright has hailed the club’s Women’s Champions League victory as a defining moment, declaring it has “saved the club” following a season in which the men’s team narrowly missed out on major honours.

The Gunners were crowned champions of Europe for the first time since 2007 after a dramatic 1-0 win over Barcelona in the final held in Lisbon. Substitute Stina Blackstenius emerged as the hero, scoring the decisive goal in the 74th minute to stun the reigning champions and seal a famous victory.

Renee Slegers’ side went into the final as underdogs against a dominant Barcelona team chasing their third consecutive Champions League title. The Spanish champions controlled possession and fired 20 shots on goal, but Arsenal’s tactical discipline and defensive resilience — led by captain Leah Williamson — proved decisive.

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Blackstenius, introduced in the second half, latched onto a clever ball inside the box and coolly slotted past Catalina Coll, sending the travelling Arsenal fans into wild celebrations. Barcelona piled on the pressure in the final minutes, but Arsenal held firm to clinch their second Champions League crown.

Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Wright praised the players’ effort and stressed the importance of the win for the club as a whole.

“Saved the club from the embarrassment of getting nothing this season when we played so well in the season with the men,” Wright said. “The ladies have saved the club. We’ve got something to celebrate.”

“Of course they need a parade — they’ve beaten Barcelona in the Champions League final. No one gave them a chance. Even I was saying it would be tough because [Barcelona] average four goals a game!”

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Wright went on to underline the magnitude of Arsenal’s achievement, recalling the humble origins of the women’s team and celebrating how far they’ve come.

“They deserve everything they are getting, all the accolades, because this is a magnificent achievement. Look how far it’s come. I remember the Champions League being at Boreham Wood… look where we are now — Arsenal winning it in Lisbon. It’s amazing!”

The win marks a major milestone for Arsenal Women and caps off a remarkable European campaign, providing the club with silverware and inspiration in a season where the spotlight has increasingly turned to the women’s game.

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