Arsenal supporters are brimming with hope and anticipation as their team gears up to make a comeback in the Champions League this week. They will face Porto in the first leg of the knockout round of 16. Despite never having won this prestigious tournament, the Gunners remain one of the most renowned names in club football. Could this finally be their year? Mikel Arteta’s squad might face a challenging path to establish themselves among Europe’s elite, but there are reasons to believe that this is their best chance yet.
In the past, Arsenal, even during their glory years under Arsene Wenger, Thierry Henry, and other legendary figures, failed to clinch this title. However, one could argue that the current team is better equipped than the Invincibles-era Arsenal to compete with the top teams in Europe. The Premier League has transformed into a Super-League-in-all-but-name. Being in the top three in the English top flight now signifies true quality. In the past, Arsenal would find it a significant step up to face even relatively modest teams like Valencia and Roma, let alone powerhouses like Bayern Munich and Barcelona.
The landscape has changed, with even mid-table teams like West Ham competing for high-profile players who would have previously joined the top sides in Europe. The Premier League now boasts managers like Roberto De Zerbi and Unai Emery, who can provide tougher tactical challenges compared to their counterparts like Thomas Tuchel and Xavi. Arsenal may not have the consistency of Manchester City in winning domestic titles, but they have proven that they can compete and succeed in two-legged ties or one-off matches. Their dominance in many league matches this season, including victories against teams like Manchester City and Liverpool, attests to their capability.
Arsenal has emerged as a genuine challenger to Manchester City’s dominance, drawing comparisons to Liverpool’s rise a few years ago. Just as Jurgen Klopp’s arrival signaled a new era of success for the Reds, Arsenal is now on a similar trajectory, especially with Arteta making significant signings to elevate the team. The additions of Declan Rice and David Raya have enhanced the team’s control and dominance, surpassing their performance from last season. These signings could potentially be the game-changers that Virgil van Dijk and Alisson were for Liverpool.
It’s important to note that Rice joined Arsenal after winning an unlikely European title last season. While the Champions League is a considerable step up from the Europa Conference League, history was also against West Ham in that competition. Additionally, Arsenal acquired Kai Havertz, who played a crucial role in Chelsea’s 2021 Champions League triumph. Although he had a slow start at Arsenal, his recent form suggests that he is finally showcasing his true potential. Havertz, along with Jorginho, who was part of Chelsea’s victorious side, can provide valuable experience and knowledge to the dressing room.
Despite having a relatively young squad, the presence of players like Rice and Havertz can greatly benefit Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, and William Saliba. These young talents can learn from their experienced teammates who understand what it takes to win a European trophy. In terms of competition, Manchester City, last season’s champions, would likely pose the biggest challenge for Arsenal’s quest for glory in the Champions League. However, history has shown that Pep Guardiola’s side has struggled against Premier League rivals in this competition. Liverpool and Tottenham have previously eliminated them, and Chelsea defeated them in the 2021 final. Arsenal managed to secure a victory against City earlier this season in the Premier League, giving them confidence in a potential two-legged tie against them. Although it would be far from easy, the Emirates Stadium would relish such a fixture, potentially intimidating City’s players. If Guardiola overthinks his tactics as he has done in the past, it could present a significant opportunity for Arsenal.
According to the Source caughtoffside.com