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Following a phenomenal domestic campaign that saw Arsenal capture their first Premier League title since 2004, the Gunners are now on the verge of historic European success.
As Mikel Arteta's side prepares to face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final in Budapest, legendary former manager Arsène Wenger has publicly backed his beloved club to finally conquer Europe and bring the ultimate prize back to north London.
Despite securing an Invincible league season, two domestic doubles, and a record seven FA Cups during his 22-year tenure, the Champions League trophy famously eluded Wenger. Speaking to UEFA ahead of Saturday's clash, Wenger made his desires clear.
"I want this trophy to go to Emirates Stadium because it's missing there. We
touched it before - we were 13 minutes away from winning it - so you want it to happen this time," Wenger said.
He emphasized the club's organic growth and readiness for this massive moment, stating:
"I've always said that you work in a club to make sure it's in a good position to continue to progress. Overall, I believe this is a stage where we can grab it. I feel the club deserves it, this season deserves it and the consistency of the team deserves it. "
Wenger revolutionized Arsenal when he arrived in 1996, transforming a team with minimal European pedigree into a continental staple. He views a victory in Budapest as the ultimate culmination of decades of groundwork.
"When I arrived at Arsenal, the club had very little Champions League history. Then we had 20 consecutive years of qualification, and now the crown of that history would be to become champions," Wenger noted. "I think Arsenal have slowly built a history that now allows them to win it. I also feel the time has come for Arsenal to dominate the Premier League consistently. I'm very keen to see Arsenal play in the final and I'm convinced we will have a great game. "
