Leah Williamson says Arsenal’s Champions League triumph proves ‘magic is real’
Arsenal captain Leah Williamson celebrates UEFA Women’s Champions League victory, calling it a moment of destiny and club legacy.
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| Leah Williamson of Arsenal poses with the UEFA Women's Champions League trophy after Arsenal’s victory over FC Barcelona in the 2025 final, held on May 24, 2025, in Lisbon, Portugal. Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images |
By Randy Ahmad and Yuni Utomo
As Arsenal fans poured into north London to celebrate their women's team's stunning Champions League victory, captain Leah Williamson declared that her belief in “magic” had been validated. The lifelong Gunner spoke emotionally during the club's official trophy parade at the Emirates Stadium, where she addressed thousands of jubilant supporters following their 1-0 win over reigning champions Barcelona in the UEFA Women’s Champions League final.
Stina Blackstenius netted the decisive goal in a closely contested match on Saturday night, denying Barcelona a third straight European title. For Williamson, it was more than just a win—it was the culmination of a belief that something special was on the horizon.
“I’ve been saying the whole time, all my team-mates will tell you, all I kept saying was ‘do you believe in magic?’” said Williamson, standing proudly in front of a sea of red and white. “That’s what I could feel. I knew it was going to happen against Lyon, I knew it was going to happen in the final. And magic delivered.”
A childhood dream fulfilled
Leah Williamson’s connection to Arsenal runs deeper than most. Born in Milton Keynes but raised a Gunners fan, she joined the club’s academy at the age of eight. By 2007, she was a young mascot witnessing her club’s first Women’s Champions League triumph—then called the UEFA Women’s Cup.
Seventeen years later, she found herself not on the sidelines, but at the center of the celebration. The defender was interviewed during Monday’s parade by former Arsenal legend Alex Scott, the very player who scored the winning goal in the 2007 final. Their emotional exchange highlighted the intergenerational legacy that the club’s women’s side continues to build.
“We knew it was going to be a special day,” said Williamson. “But when we all walked out today, we said ‘this is one of those moments.’ This is one of the moments I’ll tell my grandkids about.”
A historic season for Renee Slegers’ side
Under head coach Renee Slegers, Arsenal’s women displayed resilience and belief throughout a tough European campaign. Overcoming French powerhouse Lyon in the quarterfinals was the turning point for Williamson.
“That night in Lyon—that’s when I just knew,” she said. “We weren’t just a good team. We were a team destined to do something incredible.”
Slegers, a former Dutch international who took over Arsenal at the start of the season, has been credited with revitalizing the squad’s tactical structure and mental strength. By defeating Barcelona—widely regarded as the best women’s team in Europe—Slegers' tactical acumen and the players' unity were on full display.
Blackstenius’ winning goal in the final came from a sharp counterattack and sealed a hard-fought victory. Arsenal’s backline, anchored by Williamson, kept Barcelona’s high-octane attack scoreless, a feat few teams have managed in recent years.
Emotions run high at the Emirates
The celebration on Monday was more than a party—it was a moment of catharsis and pride for both players and fans. More than 10,000 supporters filled the area outside the Emirates Stadium as the team hoisted the trophy and thanked them for their unwavering support.
Williamson was overcome with emotion as she looked back on her journey from club mascot to Champions League-winning captain.
“My club. My Arsenal. Champions League winners. European champions,” she said, her voice trembling. “I have been educated my whole life and seen with my own two eyes how successful Arsenal have been, especially Arsenal women. All I ever wanted to do was be a part of it. It’s very special.”
Legacy and leadership
Williamson’s leadership on and off the pitch has been instrumental in shaping Arsenal’s modern identity. As England captain, she led her country to Euro 2022 glory. Now, as Arsenal captain, she has added the club’s most coveted European trophy to her legacy.
Her belief in “magic” wasn’t just about superstition—it reflected a quiet confidence in her team’s preparation, spirit, and cohesion. While much of the pre-final narrative centered on Barcelona’s dominance, Williamson’s faith never wavered.
“We prepared for this, mentally and physically. It wasn’t just hope, it was belief,” she said.
Looking ahead
With the Champions League title secured, Arsenal’s ambitions will undoubtedly grow. Slegers has already signaled her intent to build on this success, and Williamson echoed the same commitment.
“This isn’t the end of a journey—it’s just the beginning of something even greater,” she told reporters after the parade. “We’ve got young talent, experienced leaders, and now, we’ve proven we can be the best in Europe.”
The Gunners will look to carry their momentum into the next Women’s Super League season and continue competing for top honors at home and abroad.
Community impact
The victory has also reignited interest in women’s football in London and across the UK. Arsenal’s ticket sales, youth academy applications, and merchandise demand have all surged in the days following the win. Williamson acknowledged the importance of using this moment to inspire the next generation.
“When I was that little girl in 2007 watching the team win Europe, I didn’t know I’d be here today,” she said. “Now it’s our turn to show little girls everywhere that it’s possible. That dreams come true.”
A captain for the ages
Leah Williamson’s name now sits alongside the legends of Arsenal—past and present. Her journey from academy prospect to Champions League-winning captain symbolizes the growth of the women’s game and the heart of what it means to be a true club ambassador.
As the sun set over the Emirates and the trophy glinted in the London light, it wasn’t just magic that had delivered this moment—it was years of dedication, belief, and resilience.
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