Arsène Wenger has publicly dismissed Wayne Rooney’s criticism regarding Arsenal’s “heavy” celebrations following their historic qualification for the 2026 Champions League final.
The Gunners secured their first final appearance in two decades on Tuesday night, as a 1-0 win over Atlético Madrid at the Emirates Stadium completed a 2-1 aggregate triumph.
While former Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney argued on Prime Video that the scenes were premature, stating, “They haven’t won it yet,” Wenger countered that such joy was “absolutely normal” for a momentous achievement.
The legendary former manager praised Arsenal’s defensive discipline, noting that the squad was “more decisive in the duels” and fully deserved to celebrate their clinical shutout of Diego Simeone’s side.
Mikel Arteta led his players in jubilant post-match laps, a reaction Bukayo Saka described as “special” after witnessing an atmosphere unlike any other in his career.
The win not only booked a date in Budapest on May 30 but also reinforced Arsenal’s momentum as they sit six points clear at the top of the Premier League table.
Wenger emphasized that while the celebration is deserved, the focus must now shift to the final step of lifting the trophy to cement this team’s legacy.