Arsenal defender William Saliba has admitted that it is disheartening to see another season potentially ending without silverware, as the Gunners continue to chase their first major trophy since their FA Cup triumph in 2020.
Despite consistent progress under manager Mikel Arteta, the North London club has struggled to convert strong performances into tangible success.
With Arsenal now trailing Premier League leaders Liverpool by a wide margin and already out of domestic cup competitions, the UEFA Champions League remains their only realistic chance at ending the season on a high.
“It’s sad when you don’t win a trophy,” Saliba said during a pre-match press conference ahead of their round of 16 second-leg clash against PSV at the Emirates Stadium.
“But you have to believe. Tomorrow, if we win or draw, we are in the quarter-final — and from there, anything can happen.”
The French centre-back stressed the importance of self-belief and collective effort in the squad as they continue their European campaign.
“Everyone thinks we can do it,” he added, underlining the unity and determination within the dressing room.
With a commanding 7-1 lead from the first leg in the Netherlands, Arsenal are firmly in control of their Champions League tie and look set for a quarter-final berth.
However, a potential showdown with either Atletico Madrid or Real Madrid looms — a challenge that will test their mettle on the continental stage.
Many observers believe the current Arsenal squad boasts the quality and depth to challenge Europe’s best, though some still argue that the team lacks a prolific centre-forward to push them over the line in high-stakes matches.
While the league title now seems beyond reach, the Champions League represents not only a shot at silverware but also a chance for Arteta’s project to take a major leap forward.