Arsenal’s European campaign has received another significant endorsement, with David Raya, Gabriel and Declan Rice all named in UEFA’s Champions League Team of the Season. For a club that has spent recent years rebuilding its status among Europe’s elite, this recognition feels both earned and instructive.
Mikel Arteta’s side reached the Champions League final through structure, discipline and moments of individual quality. While Arsenal’s collective progress has been widely discussed, the inclusion of three players in the Team of the Season underlines how influential key figures were across the competition.
Raya’s Big Moments Prove Decisive
David Raya’s selection in goal reflects a campaign built on composure and timing. Goalkeepers at this level are often judged less by volume and more by consequence. Raya delivered when Arsenal needed control, calm distribution and decisive saves in high pressure moments.
His presence helped Arsenal manage difficult European nights, especially when matches became tense and margins narrowed. In the Champions League, that reliability carries enormous value.
Gabriel Anchors Arsenal Defence
Gabriel’s place in defence is another sign of how far his game has developed. Powerful in duels, aggressive in positioning and increasingly mature in decision making, he has become central to Arsenal’s defensive identity.
Photo: IMAGO
Across the campaign, Gabriel gave Arsenal authority at the back. His consistency allowed Arteta’s side to play with a higher line, squeeze opponents and maintain the compact structure that defined much of their Champions League run.
Rice Stands Tall in Midfield
Declan Rice’s inclusion in midfield may be the least surprising of the three. His Champions League performances showed why Arsenal invested so heavily in him. He brought athleticism, tactical intelligence and emotional control to matches where small details often decide everything.
Photo IMAGO
Rice has quickly become one of…
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