Chelsea legend John Terry has offered words of encouragement to Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhães following his missed penalty in Saturday’s UEFA Champions League final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.
Arsenal’s dream of completing a historic domestic and European double ended painfully in Budapest as PSG edged the contest on penalties after a fiercely contested encounter.
Gabriel, who had produced an impressive defensive display to help contain PSG’s attack, endured heartbreak when he failed to convert during the decisive shoot-out.
Rather than celebrate Arsenal’s setback — a result that preserved Chelsea’s status as London’s only Champions League winners — Terry chose to sympathise with the Brazilian defender.
The former Chelsea captain understands such agony more than most.
Terry famously missed a decisive penalty in Chelsea’s 2008 Champions League final defeat to Manchester United in Moscow after slipping on the rain-soaked turf.
Speaking in a video shared on social media, the former England defender admitted he felt for Gabriel.
“Wow, a terrible way to lose,” Terry said.
“I completely misjudged my predictions. I thought PSG played poorly, and Arsenal started strongly with Havertz’s goal. But credit to Arsenal; they have been exceptional in both the Premier League and Champions League.”
Terry acknowledged the emotional burden that accompanies such a painful moment.
“They narrowly miss out, and it’s a dreadful way to lose. I empathise with Gabriel; I’ve experienced it myself.
“Believe me, the next few days will be tough, and you will feel even worse.
“However, life goes on, and you will have another chance next season.”
He continued by praising Gabriel’s overall performances during the campaign.
“I wish him well. He has been outstanding this season, and I hope he recognises how well he has performed.
“It’s a difficult way to lose and to miss that final penalty. I’ve been there, and it’s an awful feeling. I wish him success for next season.”
Terry’s message has since drawn attention from supporters across rival clubs, with many applauding the Chelsea great for showing empathy in the aftermath of Arsenal’s European disappointment.
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