Former Nigeria international Nwankwo Kanu believes Arsenal have the mentality and confidence needed to defeat Paris Saint-Germain in Saturday’s UEFA Champions League final.
The match will bring the European club season to a close as Arsenal and PSG meet in the final of Europe’s leading club competition after both sides impressed throughout the campaign.
Arsenal approach the game in strong form after securing the Premier League title for the first time in 22 years. Mikel Arteta’s side have also enjoyed an unbeaten run in Europe this season, overcoming several major clubs on their route to a first Champions League final in two decades.
Their opponents, Paris Saint-Germain, arrive as defending champions after their emphatic 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in last season’s final. The French club have again demonstrated their strength in Europe this campaign, recording notable victories against Chelsea and Liverpool in the knockout stages.
The final also marks the second consecutive season in which Arsenal and PSG have faced one another in the latter stages of the competition. Last season, the French side defeated the Gunners over two legs in the semi-finals before going on to secure the club’s first Champions League title.
Arsenal are now aiming to gain revenge while pursuing their own first triumph in the tournament. The North London side previously came closest in 2006, when they reached the final but lost to Barcelona.
Speaking in an interview, former Arsenal forward Nwankwo Kanu said Arsenal’s domestic success had strengthened the belief within the squad ahead of the final.
“I told my friends that last season, we were struggling against Manchester City, and they went on to win the league. But this season, the table changed, and we have come out on top to win the Premier League title”, the 1995 UCL winner said, via Flashscore.
“In the same way, PSG won the Champions League last year, but I truly believe that this season it will be Arsenal’s turn to go all the way and lift the trophy, making it a historic year for the club.”
Kanu also pointed to Arsenal’s defensive organisation and discipline under manager Mikel Arteta as a key reason why the club could overcome PSG in the final.
The former Super Eagles striker said Arsenal’s unbeaten record in Europe this season had further increased confidence among the players and supporters.
“Last season is completely different from this one. If you look at our Champions League run, we haven’t lost a single game, and reaching the final on that record gives us real belief that we can go all the way.
“Some may call it revenge, but for us, it is about proving ourselves and finishing the job. We really need it, and with this mentality, we are confident we can definitely get it done”, the former Nigerian forward concluded
Arsenal’s progress this season has been widely praised, with Arteta building a side recognised for its tactical discipline and defensive strength. Those qualities have helped the club emerge as one of the strongest teams in Europe during the current campaign.
PSG, however, will enter the contest aiming to defend the title they won last year and continue their recent dominance against elite European opposition.
The final is expected to provide a major test for both clubs as Arsenal seek a historic first Champions League crown, while PSG attempt to secure back-to-back European titles.
