Declan Rice has vowed Arsenal will return stronger next season after leading the club’s Premier League title celebrations, insisting the Gunners are only at the beginning of a new era under Mikel Arteta.
Thousands of supporters lined the streets of north London as Arsenal celebrated their first Premier League crown since 2004 with an open-top bus parade.
The squad departed Emirates Stadium aboard a bus decorated with “Champions 25-26”, proudly displaying the trophy they secured after an outstanding domestic campaign.
While the celebrations were jubilant, they came less than 24 hours after the disappointment of losing the Champions League final to Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest.
Arsenal looked set to complete a memorable double when Kai Havertz opened the scoring, but Ousmane Dembele levelled from the penalty spot before PSG prevailed in a dramatic shootout.
Defender Gabriel later admitted the defeat was painful but praised the team’s efforts throughout a memorable season.
Despite the European setback, Rice was determined to focus on the bigger picture as he celebrated alongside teammates and supporters.
The midfielder delighted fans by grabbing a microphone and performing Vanilla Ice’s iconic “Ice Ice Baby” during the parade before delivering a bold promise about the club’s future.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Rice said:
“I love this team, I love the manager. To see the joy we can give people, it’s crazy.
But next year we’re coming back for more. You heard it here first now. Lock in or get locked out.”
His comments were met with huge cheers from supporters who have witnessed Arsenal’s transformation into champions under Arteta.
Teenage sensation Myles Lewis-Skelly also shared his optimism for what lies ahead.
The 19-year-old, who was not even born when Arsenal last won the Premier League, played a key role throughout the campaign and started the Champions League final.
Reflecting on the season, Lewis-Skelly said:
“First of all, I’m so proud of the boys. I’m proud of the organisation in helping us get here because it hasn’t been an easy season.
But obviously we’ve come to the end of the season and we’re champions of England.”
The youngster admitted the Champions League defeat still hurt but believes it will motivate the squad moving forward.
“It’s disappointing because when you’re so close to a dream, a goal, you feel slightly short. But as Mikel said, it’s added fuel to the fire, so we’ll use that.”
Lewis-Skelly believes Arsenal’s success this season is only the beginning of something special.
The academy graduate praised Arteta for the trust and support he has shown throughout his development and described the current squad as a group capable of achieving even greater things.
“For me, the future is bright. I feel like it’s the start of a new era and I feel like we’re ready to go and achieve our dreams.
He has been so supportive of me over my whole journey, so I’m just so grateful for him and the trust he’s given to me.
Thank you, and we’re not done.”
While Arsenal’s Champions League dream ended in heartbreak, their Premier League triumph has reignited belief throughout the club.
With a young core, an ambitious manager and players already promising more success, the celebrations in north London may prove to be only the first chapter of a new golden era for the Gunners.
Man Utd Women complete first summer signing as Spain prospect Andrea Medina pens three-year deal…
Michael Olise is world's best player and deserves Ballon d'Or, says France legend Willy Sagnol…
Brazil have been handed a timely fitness boost ahead of their World Cup last-16 showdown…
Former Celtic striker Tony Cascarino believes Ange Postecoglou will struggle to land another Premier League…
Lamine Yamal has thrown his support behind Barcelona's pursuit of Julian Alvarez, admitting he would…
Al-Ahli have reportedly made Mohamed Salah their priority signing of the summer as the Saudi…