Rio Ferdinand has cast doubt on Arsenal’s chances of reaching the Champions League final, predicting that Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) will emerge as the winners this season.
Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal made a strong statement in Europe by eliminating Real Madrid with a 2-1 victory at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Gunners are set to face PSG in the semi-finals after the French champions progressed despite a 3-2 loss to Aston Villa at Villa Park.
On the other side of the bracket, Barcelona secured a spot in the semi-finals despite a 3-1 defeat to Borussia Dortmund, and they will meet Inter Milan, who advanced after drawing Bayern Munich 2-2 at San Siro.
Although PSG was beaten 2-0 by Arsenal in the group stage, Ferdinand believes PSG has now become the favorite to win the Champions League. He tipped them to triumph in a final against Inter Milan on May 31.
On his YouTube channel, Ferdinand said, “I’m going for a PSG – Inter Milan final, and I think PSG will win, just.” He also expressed his ideal final would feature PSG and Barcelona, praising the attacking prowess of both teams, with explosive front lines.
While Ferdinand acknowledges his admiration for Arsenal, naming players like Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, and Martin Ødegaard as standouts, he ultimately believes PSG’s squad will be too strong to deny in this year’s competition.