Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard and star winger Bukayo Saka say the club’s unity and togetherness could become the defining factor in Saturday’s UEFA Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain.
Speaking alongside manager Mikel Arteta ahead of the final in Budapest, both players stressed that the emotional bond inside the Arsenal dressing room has helped drive the club to the brink of European history.
“Like Bukayo said, we’re like a family,” Ødegaard told reporters during Arsenal’s official pre-match media duties.
Saka echoed that sentiment while making Arsenal’s ambition for the night unmistakably clear.
“We’re hoping to win the Champions League tomorrow,” the England international said.
The comments came during an emotionally charged buildup to the biggest European fixture in Arsenal’s modern history, with the North London club preparing for only their second Champions League final appearance and their first since 2006.
The strong chemistry inside the squad has become one of the defining themes of Arsenal’s season under Arteta. British media reports have consistently highlighted the close-knit atmosphere within the dressing room as a major factor behind the club’s Premier League title triumph and deep European run.
Ødegaard said the players have developed a deep trust in one another throughout the campaign.
“We’ve built something really special together,” the Norwegian midfielder explained. “The connection between the players, the staff and the fans has been incredible.”
Saka, who has emerged as one of Arsenal’s most influential players during their European campaign, said the squad are determined to seize the opportunity in front of them.
“You dream of these moments when you’re young,” Saka said. “Now we’re here, we want to enjoy it and make history.”
Arsenal arrive in Budapest carrying enormous momentum after ending their 22-year wait for a Premier League title earlier this month. The club have also earned widespread praise for their performances throughout Europe, eliminating Atlético Madrid in the semifinals and playing some of the competition’s most consistent football.
Despite the magnitude of the occasion, Ødegaard insisted Arsenal’s mentality remains calm and focused.
“We have prepared for this game the same way we prepare for every big game,” he said. “We respect PSG a lot, but we believe in ourselves.”
PSG enter the final as defending European champions after lifting the trophy for the first time last season under Luis Enrique. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has already warned that his side are “here to take that” from the French champions.
The final is expected to feature several of Europe’s brightest stars, but much of Arsenal’s hopes will revolve around the leadership of Ødegaard and the attacking threat of Saka, who has delivered crucial performances throughout the season.
Saka’s development into one of Europe’s elite wingers has also become symbolic of Arsenal’s long-term rebuild under Arteta. The 24-year-old academy graduate has repeatedly spoken about his emotional connection to the club and supporters.
For Ødegaard, Saturday represents the chance to captain Arsenal to the most important trophy in the club’s history.
And for a squad that repeatedly describes itself as a “family,” the Champions League final could become the ultimate reward for a project built on trust, belief and unity.
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