Andrea Pirlo believes Arsenal possess a significant 'advantage' over Paris Saint-Germain heading into Saturday's Champions League final. The Premier League champions will face Ligue 1 winners PSG in Budapest in a highly anticipated European showdown.
Arsenal return to the final for the first time since 2006, aiming to secure their maiden Champions League title. PSG, meanwhile, look to defend the crown they won convincingly against Inter Milan last year.
Pirlo on Arsenal's Strengths
Mikel Arteta's side remain unbeaten in this season's tournament and enter the match brimming with confidence after clinching the Premier League title last weekend. Pirlo, a two-time Champions League winner, believes Arsenal must capitalize on their physical advantages and set-piece expertise to triumph.
'They have two central defenders and a striker who are very good in the air. They will look to take advantage,' Pirlo told Sky Sports. 'Arsenal have the ability in these situations because they study it. I have been following them a lot in the Premier League and Champions League. They have had a great run in the last few years, not just this year, and they deserved to win the Premier League title. PSG do not have these big jumpers so they will have to look for different solutions.'
Pirlo's Prediction
Despite acknowledging Arsenal's advantages, Pirlo favors PSG to retain their title, praising Luis Enrique's young and dynamic squad. 'Luis Enrique is the best coach in the world at the moment. He has created a strong team, a strong mentality with young players. It is a real pleasure to see them do well and even better to watch them because it is fast, dynamic, technical football that everyone likes. It is set up well because PSG are the holders, while for Arsenal it is the first time in 20 years but they come in having just won a Premier League. I make it 60-40 for Paris.'
Merson Backs Arsenal
Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson, however, is backing the Gunners to end their European drought. '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.'
The stage is set for an enthralling final as Arsenal seek to complete a historic double against the reigning champions.
