Sol Campbell knows all too well the heartbreak of a Champions League final defeat. As a key figure in Arsenal's 2006 loss to Barcelona, the legendary defender is now watching the current squad with hope and a touch of nostalgia. Nearly two decades later, he's eager to see the Gunners finally lift that coveted trophy.

Arsenal have positioned themselves well for a deep run this season. After grinding out a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Atletico Madrid in Spain, Mikel Arteta's side returns to the Emirates with everything to play for in the second leg. The momentum is building, and fans are daring to dream again.

But Campbell offers a dose of reality: talent alone won't be enough. Speaking to Arsenal Media, the former centre-back shared his thoughts on what it takes to go all the way. "Hopefully, they can get through this round and then get to the final. It'd be a great honour to witness them win it. Obviously, you need a bit of luck to go your way."

He knows this from painful experience. Reflecting on that 2006 final, Campbell recalled the fine margins that separated triumph from despair. "We had the chances to finish them off. Whatever reason, we just didn't. We just needed one more to go in. I still think about it now, but we had our chances."

It's a reminder that even the best teams need fortune to smile on them. Arsenal undoubtedly have the quality in their squad—with stars capable of changing a game in an instant—but as Campbell's words echo, belief and performance must be matched by a little luck along the way.

For now, the focus is on that second leg at home. If Arsenal can finish the job against Atletico, they'll be one step closer to rewriting history. And perhaps this time, the story will have a happier ending.