Héctor Bellerín couldn't hide how proud he is of this Arsenal squad

Former Arsenal player Héctor Bellerín talked about how nice it felt to play against them after Arsenal had achieved what they had during the last season.

Real Betis beat Arsenal 3-1 in their friendly, which was the Gunners' second friendly of the season so far. It was a pretty forgettable performance from the north London side, who did not really look all that impressive.

Obviously, the primary purpose of these games is to build fitness going into the season, but it does help with morale if Arsenal end up winning them. However, it is what it is, and you'd rather lose now than during the season.

Bellerín was asked about facing Arsenal after they became Premier League champions in the 2025-26 season, and he was very happy about the entire situation.

He said: "Since I knew the friendly got announced, I’ve been just counting back the days until today. I’m very grateful to be able to enjoy in a pre-season game against old teammates, against Arsenal.

“Also, it’s been really nice to play against them after they’ve achieved what they’ve achieved last season.“I spent 10 years over there, always trying to help and trying to see Arsenal where it belongs and it’s nice to finally face them with them being in that position, so I’m very happy for them."

Hector Bellerin would have wanted to achieve this with Arsenal as well

Obviously, Bellerín would have wanted to win the Premier League with Arsenal rather than watching them do it more as a fan than as a player. However, these things take time. It is always a process.

Arsenal have been in a process for the longest time, and that process is now nearing its peak, where they are finally challenging for the biggest trophies in England as well as in Europe.

Obviously, during Bellerín's time at Arsenal, they were still a good team for a few seasons before the decline truly started in the latter years of his spell at the club.

However, they were never as good as they are at the moment, where they are stacked with brilliant talent in nearly every single position on the pitch.

Back then, there were always a few positions that demanded extra reinforcement, but those needs were never fully addressed by the club. However, to see them finally having a squad that is capable of achieving such great things, Bellerín must truly be very pleased for his former team.

Bellerín did get the final laugh in the end, interestingly. Not that it will matter too much in the long run, but it was probably as nice for Bellerín to play against Arsenal as it was for Arsenal to play against the Spanish full-back, who is still performing at the top level in La Liga.

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