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Former French striker Christophe Dugarry has launched a fierce criticism of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal after their painful Champions League final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. The World Cup winner branded the Premier League champions “a bunch of clowns” for their ultra-defensive approach, accusing the London side of showing up in Budapest with an “inflated ego”.

Dugarry’s outrage over defensive approach

Arsenal fell short against PSG in the 2026 Champions League final in Budapest, losing on penalties after a 1-1 draw that went into extra time. Despite Kai Havertz putting the Gunners ahead in the sixth minute, the English champions retreated deep and surrendered control of the game.

Speaking on RMC Sport’s programme Rothen S’enflamme, Dugarry did not hold back his frustration over Arsenal’s tactics. “We saw clearances, an Arsenal team deliberately wasting time. It was unbearable, intolerable,” he raged. “What almost became tragic for football lovers is that Arsenal nearly suggested that by doing almost nothing, you can still win the Champions League.”

Claims of arrogance and lost identity

The 1998 World Cup champion continued his tirade, accusing Arteta and his players of betraying Arsenal’s footballing heritage with such negativity on the biggest European stage. Dugarry was particularly scathing about their attitude, claiming they lacked humility.

“They’re a bunch of clowns,” Dugarry continued. “They came in full of themselves, with Arteta declaring, ‘We’re going to beat them’… I’m honestly glad Arsenal got what they deserved. If they ever want to win it, they need to start playing football again. This isn’t the Arsenal we know! This club has a proud history, they are the Gunners, known for a distinctive style of play. You can’t abandon that—it’s unacceptable.”

Criticism from other pundits

Dugarry wasn’t alone in questioning Arsenal’s defensive mindset. Former Chelsea midfielder Craig Burley also voiced his disapproval on ESPN, expressing disbelief at how a top side could abandon their attacking philosophy after taking an early lead. “Let’s be clear—after scoring in the sixth minute, they simply tried to defend until the final whistle,” Burley observed. “If PSG had scored that early, they would have kept attacking, kept pushing to win it. That’s the difference between these two teams—not just in the final, but in their whole approach to football.”

What lies ahead for Arsenal?

Arsenal must now regroup as they prepare for their pre-season tour. While capturing the Premier League title marked a massive success, their pursuit of European glory continues. Arteta and his coaching unit will need to reassess their tactical philosophy in high-pressure situations if they hope to finally lift the Champions League trophy in the future.