Paul Merson believes Arsenal have a world-beater at their disposal ahead of the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain. Mikel Arteta's side have turned their attention to a stunning double after clinching the Premier League title last week. The Gunners are preparing for their first Champions League final since 2006 and will face holders PSG in Budapest on Saturday.
Merson Backs Arsenal to Win
Arsenal are underdogs going into the match, but Merson has backed his former club to stun Luis Enrique's team and become European champions for the first time. He also hailed David Raya as 'the best goalkeeper in the world' ahead of one of the biggest games in Arsenal's history. Eyebrows were raised when Arteta signed Raya from Brentford in 2024, but the 30-year-old Spain international has developed into one of the best shot-stoppers in world football.
Merson's Comments on Arsenal's Squad
'It's remarkable to think it took 22 years for Arsenal to win the Premier League again since the Invincibles,' Merson told Historic Newspapers. 'But what finally earned them the title was a group of robust players who turn up week-in, week-out. Declan Rice has been incredible in that regard.'
'Mikel Arteta has assembled a strong squad with signings who may have gone under the radar when they first joined, particularly players like Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Gabriel, and Leandro Trossard. They chose to replace Aaron Ramsdale with David Raya, and he's gone on to become the best goalkeeper in the world. They've also added players with an x-factor, like Eberechi Eze who can add a touch of magic. What Arteta and the club have done to assemble this squad is unbelievable.'
Prediction for the Final
Revealing his prediction for the Champions League final, Merson added: 'After winning the Premier League, Arsenal now have an amazing opportunity against Paris Saint-Germain in Saturday's final. The first goal is going to be key. It's a Champions League final, so it will be a cagey game – I can't see PSG playing the flamboyant football they showed in the first leg of their semi-final against Bayern Munich.'
'PSG will be worried about going 1-0 down to Arsenal, because they'll know they'll be up against it – they'll be scared of losing the first goal. A cagey game would suit Arsenal well. If PSG arrive with their gung-ho approach, then Arsenal could be in a bit of trouble, but if they play with a fear of going 1-0 down, then Arsenal are right in the game. I'm going to predict a 1-0 win for Arsenal.'
Arsenal beat Atletico Madrid to reach their first Champions League final in 20 years, while PSG edged out Bayern Munich in the semi-finals.
