Arsenal were eliminated in the Champions League semi-finals but can find some consolation knowing they lost to the eventual champions, Paris Saint-Germain.
Despite Mikel Arteta`s claim that his side were superior over the two legs against PSG, this is difficult to support. Ultimately, Luis Enrique`s team emerged victorious.
In the final, the dynamic attacking trio of Ousmane Dembele, Désiré Doué, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia once again shone, scoring five goals against Inter Milan.
Coincidentally, Arsenal might sign a player this summer who could be their equivalent to Doué.
Arsenal Exploring Winger Options
Arsenal are interested in signing Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, but their success in the upcoming transfer window will heavily depend on their attacking reinforcements.
Benjamin Sesko is reportedly a primary attacking target, with behind-the-scenes discussions underway for a potential transfer.
Arsenal`s scouting department is reportedly busy, with discussions also taking place for other attacking players.
Earlier reports indicated Arsenal were considering a move for former Manchester City winger Leroy Sané. Over the weekend, it appears progress may have been made on a potential deal.
According to Caught Offside, Sané`s agent, Pini Zahavi, has held discussions with both Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal regarding a summer move for his client.
Sané is set to leave Bayern Munich when his contract expires, making him available on a free transfer.
Leroy Sané: Arsenal`s Potential Equivalent to Désiré Doué?
Désiré Doué is widely regarded as one of the most talented generational players currently.
He transferred from Rennes to PSG last summer and, after a settling-in period, has demonstrated his potential to remain a top player for years to come.
The young Frenchman has had an outstanding season, contributing 15 goals and 16 assists across all competitions.
He delivered his most significant performance in the Champions League final in Munich, scoring two of PSG`s five goals and standing out as one of the best players on the night.
Désiré Doué is the first ever player to be involved in three goals in a UEFA Champions League final.
Leroy Sané, once called `the best in the world playing out wide` by Pep Guardiola, possesses a skill set comparable to Doué`s. Both players excel at dribbling past defenders and creating unexpected moments of brilliance.
Doué is right-footed, but when positioned on the left wing, his ability to cut inside and dribble past opponents in a style reminiscent of Neymar is captivating.
In many aspects, Sané can be seen as the right-wing counterpart to Doué. He boasts impressive pace, remarkable technical skill, and his somewhat taller, lean build is also noticeable.
Statistical Comparison: Sané vs Doué
| Sané vs Doué (2023/24 – 2024/25) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Stat (per 90 mins) | Sané | Doué |
| Goals | 0.45 | 0.27 |
| Assists | 0.38 | 0.27 |
| Shot on target % | 40% | 37% |
| Key passes | 2.58 | 2.31 |
| Progressive passes | 4.22 | 6.97 |
| Shot-creating actions | 5.23 | 5.28 |
| Successful take-ons | 3.15 | 3.24 |
| Progressive carries | 4.68 | 4.69 |
The statistics, as anticipated, highlight significant similarities between the two players.
Across the last two seasons, Sané has demonstrated a higher output in terms of goals and assists. However, their playing styles are remarkably alike.
While Doué leads significantly in progressive passes, there is minimal difference between the two when examining shot-creating actions and their effectiveness in advancing the play through dribbling and carrying the ball.
The young French talent is undoubtedly a future Ballon d`Or candidate. However, acquiring Sané on a free transfer offers Arsenal the chance to sign a more seasoned and polished winger. This prospect holds considerable appeal.
