If Arsenal had started the match with the same determination and fighting spirit they showed against Paris Saint-Germain in the group stage, what would have happened? If Ødegaard had taken a left-footed shot from outside the box similar to Fabián Ruiz, what would have happened?

If Arsenal had a clinical striker in the box who could convert one of the 17 crosses registered by the wingers in the first 45 minutes or finish the unbelievable chance Saka missed, what would have happened?

Ultimately, if Arsenal had won their first Premier League title in over 20 years and become European champions for the first time in history in Munich, instead of trailing Liverpool by 15 points and being eliminated in the UEFA Champions League semifinals, what would have happened?

Arsenal fans will face many unanswered questions in the coming days, especially as the team ends a season that was expected to be historic and unforgettable—only for some to label it as weak and disappointing. Once again, they failed to lift a trophy.

A team that, when it lost its two strikers to long-term injuries in the winter, did not reinforce, did not buy a striker, and relied on Mikel Merino. An Arsenal that saw itself as champions after two memorable victories over Real Madrid. A team that left its soul at the Bernabéu.

Now, their longtime rivals, Tottenham, still have a chance to reach the final of a European competition (the Conference League) and could join Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League next season, just like Manchester United.

Arteta, with the help of Andrea Berta (the new sporting director), must once again convince the players and fans that next season will finally be the season of success. Can he?