- Sir Alex Ferguson ‘bored’ by Arsenal in PSG loss
- Ex-Man Utd boss reportedly text president
- United need to show similar fight
Sir Alex Ferguson reportedly congratulated Paris Saint-Germain on beating Arsenal in last night’s UEFA Champions League with a text to club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi.
The iconic former Manchester United manager appeared to have watched the final between PSG and the Gunners. Luis Enrique’s men prevailed 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw over 120 minutes.
As Champions League finals go, this was one that won’t be added to the highlight reel. The Parisians’ attacking brilliance wasn’t on full display due to the North Londoners’ defensive approach.
Ferguson ‘bored’ by Arsenal
Arsenal took the lead through Kai Havertz before Ousmane Dembele equalised from the penalty spot. The game headed to penalties and misses from Eberechi Eze and Gabriel Magalhaes ensured PSG remained European champions.
According to L’Equipe, Ferguson text Al-Khelaifi after the final and took a dig at Arteta’s side. He allegedly wrote: “Well done, it was a tough night for you, but you played against a boring team that did nothing but defend.”
Arsenal have spent the season grinding out wins and they can’t be faulted for this. Their pragmatic approach saw them become Premier League champions for the first time since 2004.
That said, this Gunners team had been given comparisons to Ferguson’s 2008 United side. Theo Walcott asked if Wayne Rooney thought they were as strong, and the Red Devils legend rightfully laughed and told him that “we’d batter them.”
Arsenal are a difficult watch and don’t exactly captivate viewers, including Ferguson, it seems. Most English champions have played their way to glory with an exciting brand of football.
Are you not entertained?
It wasn’t just Ferguson who seemed to take issue with Arteta’s tactical setup last night. PSG midfielder Joao Neves told media after the game: “I saw only one team on the pitch to be honest, we created chances we had the ball most of the time. I think we played better and we deserved it.”
Arsenal now have a target on their backs ahead of next season as they look to defend their crown. While they have been scrutinised for their playing philosophy, Carrick’s United showed glimpses of brilliance during his interim reign.
If the Red Devils are to return to the title picture, there’s no doubt that doing so with an attractive style of play is every fan’s desire. But they can take some inspiration from this Gunners side who are arguably the best defensive team in Europe.
