Burley blasts Arteta's rugby-like tactics as Arsenal lose Champions League final on penalties
Arsenal's dream of first Champions League trophy ended in disappointment after losing to PSG on penalties in Budapest. Kai Havertz gave Arsenal dream start with 6th-minute goal, but Ousmane Dembele equalized before halftime. Gabriel missed decisive penalty as PSG secured second consecutive title.
Former Chelsea legend Craig Burley heavily criticized Arsenal's tactics after they took early lead. 'Let's be clear, after scoring in sixth minute, they attempted to defend to 90th minute,' Burley stated on ESPN. 'Three times from kick-off, they launched it forward as if rugby match. That's embarrassing.'
Arsenal set record for lowest possession in Champions League final history with mere 24.7%, sitting back after early lead to let PSG control ball. Burley questioned defensive approach: 'I don't understand all the praise when your strategy is to sit back and allow best footballing team in Europe to have possession while you defend for 84 minutes.'
Will Arteta change attacking approach in future finals, or continue defensive strategy that got Arsenal to final?