Former Arsenal star Ian Wright has aimed criticism at Mikel Arteta's men's team, suggesting that Arsenal Women saved the club from "embarrassment" following their UEFA Women's Champions League triumph over Barcelona.

Arsenal Women secured a 1-0 victory against Barcelona at the Estádio José Alvalade in Lisbon on Saturday, with Stina Blackstenius scoring the decisive second-half goal that delivered the prestigious European trophy.

Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Wright didn't mince words about what this achievement meant for the North London club: "It has saved the club. The embarrassment of not getting anything this season when we played so well with the men. The ladies have saved the club. We have got something to celebrate."

Wright's comments highlight the contrasting fortunes between Arsenal's men's and women's teams this season. While Arteta's side competed strongly in the Premier League, they ultimately finished the campaign without silverware, making the women's Champions League victory the only trophy Arsenal will add to their cabinet this season.

The Arsenal legend also advocated for proper recognition of the women's achievement, adding: "Of course they need a parade."

This triumph marks a significant milestone for Arsenal Women, who overcame the formidable Barcelona side that had been dominant in European women's football in recent years.

The victory provides a bright spot for Arsenal supporters after a season that saw the men's team fall short in their pursuit of domestic and European honors despite showing considerable improvement under Arteta's management.