Two Arsenal players included in Champions League Team of the Week

Arsenal’s sensational Champions League quarter-final performance continues to draw praise across Europe, with two of their standout stars — Jakub Kiwior and Declan Rice — earning spots in UEFA’s official Champions League Team of the Week.

Following the Gunners’ emphatic 2-1 victory over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu — a result that secured their place in the semi-finals with a commanding 5-1 aggregate win — recognition was always expected. But it’s the inclusion of Kiwior and Rice that has set social media alight.

Declan Rice, Arsenal’s midfield engine, was named Man of the Match for his commanding performance against a seasoned Madrid side. He was everywhere — intercepting passes, launching counter-attacks, and protecting the back four with authority that belied his age. His calmness on the ball under pressure, especially in a stadium as intimidating as the Bernabéu, was a testament to how vital he has become to Mikel Arteta’s tactical setup.

Jakub Kiwior, meanwhile, continued his impressive run of form. The Polish defender was rock-solid at the back, constantly stepping up to neutralize Madrid’s attacking threats, most notably Rodrygo and Brahim Díaz. His positioning, discipline, and anticipation were exceptional throughout the tie. Few expected Kiwior to keep his starting role when the knockout stages began, but he’s now made himself almost undroppable.

Curiously, however, Bukayo Saka, who scored the opening goal in the second leg and was central to Arsenal’s attacking efforts, was omitted from the Team of the Week — a decision that has left many fans scratching their heads. Saka’s influence was undeniable, from his constant probing down the right flank to his ability to beat defenders and deliver key passes. His composure in big moments yet again showed why he’s considered one of the best young players in the world.

Some Arsenal fans have taken to social media to vent their frustrations, arguing that Saka’s omission is unjust given his goal, work rate, and leadership in such a high-stakes fixture. Others, however, have suggested that the selection committee may have prioritized defensive solidity this week, given the tight nature of the quarter-final clashes.

Still, the fact that two Arsenal players made the elite list underscores just how far the North London club has come under Arteta’s stewardship. Once ridiculed for falling short in Europe, Arsenal now find themselves in the Champions League semi-finals for the first time in 15 years, and they didn’t just get there — they bulldozed past the most successful club in the competition’s history.

Real Madrid, a team that has haunted English clubs in recent seasons, looked disjointed and frustrated. Much of that was down to Rice’s complete control of midfield and Kiwior’s composure at the back. Even veteran stars like Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos found little joy as Arsenal suffocated possession and dictated the tempo.

The recognition also highlights the shrewd recruitment by the Arsenal board in recent windows. Signing Rice for over £100 million raised eyebrows last summer, but his performances in both the Premier League and Champions League have more than justified the price tag. As for Kiwior, brought in as a backup, he’s blossomed into a first-team regular capable of delivering on Europe’s biggest stage.

Meanwhile, manager Mikel Arteta praised his team’s collective performance. “This is what we’ve been building towards. Big nights, historic moments — and this is just the beginning,” he said after the win in Spain. He also specifically praised Kiwior and Rice for stepping up when it mattered most. “They showed maturity, discipline, and hunger. That’s the Arsenal we want the world to see.”

As the Gunners gear up for a semi-final showdown against Paris Saint-Germain, the focus will now shift to recovery and preparation. But for a brief moment, fans and players alike can savor the recognition from UEFA — a small but significant nod to the journey Arsenal are on.

This latest accolade is also bound to boost morale within the camp. Being acknowledged among Europe’s finest doesn’t just inspire confidence, it sets a standard. For a young squad like Arsenal’s, these are the experiences that forge belief — the kind of belief needed to go all the way.

For now, Rice and Kiwior will enjoy the moment. For Saka, the omission may just serve as added motivation. With at least two more Champions League matches to play, expect him to come back even stronger.

Arsenal fans, once starved of European joy, are beginning to dream again. The Champions League crown, long elusive, now feels just within reach.