Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed satisfaction with the officiating after his side secured a 2-1 aggregate victory over Atletico Madrid to book their place in the Champions League final. The result marks a historic milestone for the Gunners, who navigated the knockout stages without a single defeat.

In a post-match press conference, Arteta showed a rare moment of empathy for his counterpart, Diego Simeone. "It's very hard for anyone when you're so close and it's taken away from you. I feel very connected to him because I know what it's like to be on the other side; it happened to me last year. We know each other well, and I know exactly how it feels," Arteta said, acknowledging the emotional toll of falling short at such a crucial stage.

The Basque coach was particularly proud of his team's composure in the second half. "We already knew they were a very competitive team and that they were going to be tough. When we scored, the game went our way, but we had to manage it well. They're a very experienced team; they've played many matches like this. Scoring helped us, but then we had to hold on and know how to suffer, and we showed a lot of maturity."

Arteta also praised Atletico's resilience, noting, "We know how difficult this competition is. Atletico is an incredible team, constantly inventing new solutions, which is why they've gotten this far. These knockout rounds are decided by small details, and tonight they went our way."

When questioned about the refereeing, which saw Atletico furious after three penalty appeals were turned down—including a contentious challenge by Riccardo Calafiori on Antoine Griezmann—Arteta was unequivocal. "I thought he was very good. There was nothing to criticize," he stated firmly.

Reflecting on the tense moments during the match, Arteta admitted his thoughts turned personal. "I thought about my family: my wife, my children, my parents, and everyone involved with the club. When you see people with that expression in their eyes and that immense..."

For Arsenal fans, this victory is a testament to the team's growth under Arteta, blending tactical discipline with emotional resilience—qualities that could serve them well in the final. As the Gunners prepare for the biggest stage in European football, their journey through the tournament has been nothing short of commanding.