Former Arsenal winger Ray Parlour has opened up on his former club’s chances in the UEFA Champions League semi-final clash with Paris Saint-Germain. The second leg will hold at the Parc de Princes on Wednesday. Arsenal lost the first leg 1-0 at the Emirates last week.
Parlour suggested that Arsenal’s chances of reaching the UEFA Champions League final rest on which team scores first, as that one goal will drive either side towards a confident performance. “Scoring first in Paris is vital for Arsenal, and in Saka and Martinelli, they have the tool to do this,” Parlour said. “Merino as number 9 will also help, and he can cause PSG problems. It’s not over, but it’s key that Arsenal don’t concede early and can grow into the game in Paris.”
Parlour also highlighted Arsenal’s impressive away record in Europe this season, citing their wins in Madrid and against PSV. “You look at Arsenal’s away record in Europe this season, and it is pretty good. Winning in Madrid and heavily against PSV. They have nothing to fear, and also from set pieces, Arsenal can look to capitalise.”
The former winger also emphasized the importance of Thomas Partey’s return for Mikel Arteta’s side. Partey missed the first leg due to suspension. “Arsenal missed Thomas Partey’s presence in the centre of midfield. They struggled to cope early on with the way PSG pressed and won back possession quickly. The closing down throughout the game should have been better, I think they gave PSG too much respect, and as mentioned, Partey was a big miss.”
Parlour believes Partey’s return will be crucial in helping Arsenal bounce back from the first-leg defeat. “The closing down throughout the game should have been better, I think they gave PSG too much respect, and as mentioned, Partey was a big miss, as it meant Declan Rice’s game changed, and also Merino’s game too. Merino has been doing a good job as the number 9, which worked well in both Madrid games.”
Arsenal fans will be eagerly waiting for the second leg, hoping that their team can overcome the deficit and make it to the final. With Partey back in the lineup, Arsenal will look to capitalize on their strengths and make a strong push for the win.
In the world of football, every match is a new opportunity for teams to prove themselves. Arsenal’s journey to the Champions League final may have hit a roadblock, but with the right strategy and performance, they can still achieve their goal. As Parlour noted, Arsenal has nothing to fear, and with the right mindset, they can overcome PSG and make it to the final.