Sami Khedira Snubs Arsenal in Champions League Prediction
Germany World Cup winner Sami Khedira has named Bayern Munich as his overwhelming favorites to win this season's Champions League, placing the German giants ahead of Premier League powerhouse Arsenal in his assessment. The former Real Madrid and Juventus midfielder made his bold prediction in an interview with German publication Kicker, highlighting Bayern's strengths while acknowledging the threat posed by Mikel Arteta's side.
Bayern's Dominant Campaign
Bayern Munich secured their spot in the knockout phase with an impressive group stage performance, winning seven of their eight matches under manager Vincent Kompany. Their only defeat came during this dominant run, establishing them as one of Europe's most formidable teams heading into the business end of the competition.
Arsenal were the only team to better Bayern's points tally, completing their group stage campaign with a perfect 100 percent record that has reestablished the London club as genuine European contenders. Despite this achievement, Khedira believes Bayern possess the edge when it comes to lifting the trophy in May.
Khedira's Analysis
'For me, they are the absolute number one, even ahead of Arsenal,' Khedira stated emphatically. 'It will be crucial that Bayern Munich go into the knockout phase reasonably rested. But the most important thing in this crucial phase will be that their spine, their absolute top players and game-changers, are healthy and fit, especially mentally.'
The midfielder pointed to Bayern's injury woes from last season as a cautionary tale. When Inter Milan eliminated them at the quarter-final stage twelve months ago, Bayern were without three key players: goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, attacking midfielder Jamal Musiala, and defender Dayot Upamecano.
'At this level, no squad can really compensate for that,' Khedira explained. 'That's especially true when Bayern's squad is deliberately kept smaller, consciously consisting of younger players and talents.'
Harry Kane's Sensational Form
Bayern's prospects have been significantly boosted by the extraordinary form of striker Harry Kane. The England captain has scored eight goals in eight Champions League appearances this season while netting 28 times in the Bundesliga - more than double his closest rival in the German top flight.
After Bayern's disappointing exit last term, Kane will be determined to continue his goalscoring exploits and lead his team to European glory. As one of the competition's top seeds, Bayern know they will face either Bayer Leverkusen or Atalanta in the next round and are expected to be overwhelming favorites regardless of their opponent in Friday's draw.
Other Contenders
While Khedira views Bayern and Arsenal as the leading contenders, he acknowledged several other clubs could realistically lift the trophy. Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Liverpool, and Manchester City all received mentions as potential champions.
Regarding Barcelona, Khedira offered measured praise: 'I also see Barcelona as a great team, but not as favorites. I have a huge respect for Hansi Flick and I also like their style of play because it's simply attractive to watch. But they can't seem to get their defensive problems under control.'
Knockout Stage Draw Details
The draw for the Champions League round of sixteen takes place on Friday, February 27 at 11am UK time. The event will be broadcast on TNT Sports 1 and streamed free of charge on the TNT Sports YouTube channel.
Premier League teams face varied potential opponents:
- Arsenal could meet Borussia Dortmund, Bayer Leverkusen, or Atalanta
- Chelsea might face Newcastle, Monaco, or PSG
- Liverpool could be paired with Atletico Madrid, Galatasaray, or Juventus
- Manchester City might encounter Bodo/Glimt, Real Madrid, or Benfica
- Tottenham could face Atletico Madrid, Galatasaray, or Juventus
- Newcastle might meet Chelsea or Barcelona
As the competition enters its decisive phase, Khedira's prediction sets the stage for what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to European football's premier club competition.
