As Arsenal Women prepare to face Barcelona in their eagerly awaited Champions League final, three generations of the club’s iconic figures come together to reflect on the historic 2007 triumph — still the only time an English team has lifted the trophy. Kelly Smith, a key player from that era and now assistant coach, alongside current captain Kim Little and rising star Lotte Wubben-Moy, share insights into what makes Arsenal special and the emotions fueling this landmark moment.
Remembering the 2007 final: Legends reflect
Kelly Smith, a veteran of Arsenal’s celebrated 2007 quadruple-winning squad, recalls the drama and camaraderie of that iconic campaign. Although she missed the final itself due to suspension, Smith’s memories of the team’s unity and strength remain vivid.
“That team was stacked with stars,” Smith says. “We had four captains from the national teams — Jayne Ludlow from Wales, Ciara Grant from Ireland, Faye White from England, and Julie Fleeting from Scotland. Leaders all. We also had incredible talents like Rachel Yankey and promising youngsters like Lianne Sanderson.”
Kim Little, who joined Arsenal a year later, recalls growing up hearing tales of that era. “I have vague memories of Emma Byrne’s amazing saves and Alex Scott’s goals, but much of it comes from hearing stories passed down. Once I signed, I really understood the club’s history and what I was stepping into.”
Smith reflects on her frustration missing the final due to a red card, but also the pride of watching her teammates from the stands. “It was the most nervous I’ve ever felt, sitting there unable to influence the game. But I knew it was special — the atmosphere, Emma Byrne’s saves — it was written in the stars.” Lotte Wubben-Moy, the youngest of the trio, was raised on these stories and now cherishes having those firsthand voices around. “It’s almost old-fashioned how these stories live on — it’s magical to hear them in person, not just read about them online,” she says. “That connection to the past is unique to Arsenal.”
The 2025 final: A new generation steps up
Fast forward to 2025, and Arsenal’s current squad is writing its own chapter in European football history. After a commanding 4-1 win over eight-time champions Lyon in the semi-finals, the team looks forward to facing Barcelona in Lisbon.
Kelly Smith admits the semi-final victory was emotional. “I teared up at the end. We were comfortable, but you never know against a team like Lyon. It was a special moment after 18 years since the last final.”
Kim Little, Arsenal’s captain and a veteran leader, shares the nervous energy and determination in the squad. “I’m not usually sentimental, but in those final minutes, I was thinking of every worst-case scenario. That made me emotional — the weight of 18 years of hard work.”
Lotte Wubben-Moy, returning from injury for the semi-final, recalls the collective focus. “It felt like everything aligned that day — all the hard work to get fit, the team effort. Moments like that are rare in football. I felt proud to contribute when it mattered most.”
Smith offers encouragement, reminding the team that the final is a one-off game where focus and individual battles will decide the outcome. “Barcelona have been there five times in a row. This is new to us. If we each win our battles, we can come out on top.”
What makes Arsenal special: A legacy of connection and empowerment
Throughout their conversation, a common theme emerges: Arsenal is more than a club — it’s a family bound by shared values, history, and a distinct playing style. Kim Little highlights the importance of passing down the legacy. “I’ve been here so long, and I hope players like Lotte and Leah Williamson will carry this forward. We want to be consistent contenders, not just celebrate one-off moments.”
Wubben-Moy agrees, emphasizing the club’s unique culture. “Arsenal allows people to be themselves, to blossom on and off the pitch. That empowerment fuels our success.” Kelly Smith echoes this sentiment from her coaching role. “Working here, seeing the connection players have to the club, is special. I want to help strikers find their best — to help us finally bring the trophy home would be the ultimate.”
Little sums up the feeling: “Almost half my life has been at Arsenal. To lead the team in a Champions League final, connecting the past and present, is unique. Sharing it with people so committed to the club makes it even more special.”
Wubben-Moy recalls her personal Arsenal roots. “My aunt sang Arsenal chants as lullabies. The club represents infinite possibilities — life, love, potential. That potential is what we all live for, especially as we face the Champions League final.”
The future of Arsenal football
While the focus is on the imminent final, the trio acknowledge this moment is part of a broader journey. Arsenal aims to build sustained success in women’s football, fueled by lessons from the past and ambition for the future. Kim Little speaks candidly about their aspirations beyond the final. “We want to win the league. Chelsea has dominated for six years, and that’s not acceptable to us. This final is a milestone, but it’s also motivation to keep pushing.”
Wubben-Moy adds: “This club empowers us to give everything — and that means working hard on the pitch and dreaming big off it.”Kelly Smith, proud of the club’s culture, looks forward to contributing to that future. “Arsenal has always been in my blood. Helping players grow and hopefully finally winning the Champions League together — that’s the dream.”
As Arsenal’s heroes past and present unite, their shared passion and commitment embody a club ready to write new history — aiming not just to repeat the triumph of 2007, but to build a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
