
The Football Faithful
·2. Juni 2025
Parlour: Arsenal have ‘done wonders’ for women’s game

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Yahoo sportsThe Football Faithful
·2. Juni 2025
Ray Parlour believes Arsenal Women’s Champions League victory will motivate their male counterparts towards similar success.
Renee Slegers’ side defeated Barcelona Femeni 1-0 in Lisbon last Saturday to claim their second European title.
Stina Blackstenius’ 74th-minute strike was the difference in the Portuguese capital. The Swede’s winner prevented Barcelona from claiming the trophy for the third successive season.
It was a pivotal moment for the North London outfit, as it was the first time they managed to win the competition since 2007.
Having made over 300 appearnances for the Gunners as a player, Parlour was naturally delighted with the result.
“This is a great achievement for the Club,” the 52-year-old exclusively told The Football Faithful, in association with NetBet Sports Betting.
“Arsenal have always invested in the Women’s game and what an end to the season for them.
“It’s hugely beneficial and will push on the Men’s team to replicate their success.”
One of Parlour’s former teammates, Ian Wright, is renowned for his influence in the women’s football scene. After the match, the pundit claimed the achievement “saved the club” after the “embarrassment” of the men’s side failing to win a trophy.
The ‘Romford Pele’ was quick to sympathise with his ex-colleague’s comments and reiterate his pride.
“In the heat of the moment, you can see Wrighty’s comments,” Parlour explained.
“The Women’s achievement of Champions League winners is great for the club and Wrighty has been a massive advocate of the Women’s game.
“You can see how proud he was of the team, as everyone is.”
The impact of Arsenal’s success on the continental stage can have on the sport back home cannot be understated. Their success will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of female footballers, something Parlour swiftly commended.
“Arsenal have done wonders for the Women’s game,” the former midfielder stated.
“So many more games at the Emirates and Arsenal fans filing it out with excellent support is brilliant for the game.
“Arsenal have long invested in the women’s game and now with the WSL (Women’s Super League) in good hands and England winning the Euros, domestically Arsenal are a team on the up.
“With the Champions League win, the fanbase is growing and the game is in good health.”