In a surprising turn of events, Arsenal legend Paul Merson has reversed his earlier predictions for the UEFA Champions League semi-finals and final. Initially, Merson had tipped Arsenal to not only reach the final but also claim the coveted trophy. However, after witnessing the semi-final first leg encounters, he has now shifted his support to Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan, predicting they will face off in the final later this month.
The semi-final picture is set, with Paris Saint-Germain hosting Arsenal in the second leg in Paris, while Inter Milan welcomes Barcelona to San Siro. The first leg saw PSG secure a narrow 1-0 victory over Arsenal, while Inter Milan and Barcelona played out an exhilarating 3-3 draw. Merson’s change of heart comes as a result of these outcomes, indicating a significant shift in his analysis of the teams’ chances.
Merson shared his thoughts with Sportskeeda, highlighting the challenge Arsenal faces in the second leg against PSG. “Arsenal have a lot to do in the second leg against PSG after that 1-0 loss at the Emirates. They must now come out and score early at the Parc des Princes,” he noted. He also reflected on Arsenal’s previous win against Real Madrid, suggesting that the circumstances of that game were different, as Real Madrid had to push for a win, a situation PSG won’t find themselves in during the second leg. “Arsenal won the game at the Bernabeu because Real Madrid had to chase the tie. PSG won’t have to do that next week and if I’m being honest, I’d have to pick the Ligue 1 champions to reach the final,” Merson explained.
Regarding the other semi-final, Merson praised Inter Milan’s offensive display against Barcelona, a team known for its defensive prowess. “Barcelona are going to play only one way and that is open and direct attacking football. Fair play to Inter, they have always had the reputation of being a defensive team but had a real go in that 3-3 draw,” he said. Merson anticipates a closely contested second leg, potentially leading to penalties. “I think it will be 2-2 and it will go to penalties. If I had to pick one team, it would be Inter. Since the first day, I have backed them to win the Champions League and I stick by that,” he reaffirmed his support for the Serie A side.
Merson’s revised predictions underscore the intense competition and unpredictability of the Champions League. As the semi-finals unfold, fans and pundits alike are eager to see which teams will ultimately clash in the final and claim the prestigious title. With his latest predictions, Merson joins the chorus of voices speculating on the outcomes, adding an element of excitement and speculation to the already electrifying atmosphere surrounding the tournament.
