Arsenal will host Paris Saint-Germain at the Emirates Stadium in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final on Tuesday. Both teams are looking to qualify for what would only be their second ever Champions League final.
Arsenal (2.14) have performed well in cup competitions over the past decade. However, the Premier League and Champions League have remained out of sight. Mikel Arteta’s appointment in 2019 has led to the Gunners being far more competitive, but still, their last Premier League title was in 2004 and they have never won the Champions League.
PSG (3.50) have attempted to claim European glory by signing a host of stars over the years. The likes of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, Neymar and Sergio Ramos could not deliver the Champions League for PSG. Nor could Zlatan Ibrahimović, Thiago Silva and Edinson Cavani before them.
Ironically, this is the closest they have come, with a team featuring perhaps the fewest star names of any PSG side since Qatar Sports Investments became the club’s majority owners in 2011.
Ousmane Dembélé’s PSG Revival
Ousmane Dembélé is enjoying a stunning revival at Paris Saint-Germain. After years of injuries and inconsistency, the French winger is back to his best. He has scored 21 goals in Ligue 1 this season, making him the top scorer in France. His pace, skill, and finishing have made him PSG’s most dangerous weapon.
Dembélé has also shone in Europe. He has netted seven goals in the UEFA Champions League so far in the 2024-25 campaign. His form has helped PSG reach the semi-finals, where they will face Arsenal. Dembélé’s performances have been crucial in tight matches, providing the spark when PSG needed it most.
Luis Enrique has given Dembélé the freedom to express himself. Playing mostly on the right wing, he has terrorised defenders with his dribbling. His decision-making has also improved, making him more effective in front of goal.
Fans and pundits have praised Dembélé’s consistency this season. Many now see him as one of Europe’s elite forwards. His fitness has been carefully managed, helping him avoid the injuries that once held him back. Confidence has flowed back into his game, and he is playing with a smile.
With the semi-final against Arsenal looming, PSG will hope Dembélé can maintain his form. He could be the key to delivering the club’s first-ever Champions League title. If he continues like this, he may soon be in the conversation for the Ballon d’Or. Dembélé’s revival has truly been one of the stories of the season.
Saka, Rice and Lewis-Skelly: Homegrown Talent Firing Gunners’ Bid
Declan Rice has been crucial for Arsenal in their UEFA Champions League run this season. The England midfielder has dominated games with his power and intelligence. His brace against Real Madrid in the quarter-finals showed his ability to step up in big moments. Rice’s leadership and energy have given Arsenal a solid platform to attack with freedom.
Bukayo Saka has also been outstanding. The winger has terrorised defenders with his pace and skill. In the second leg against Madrid, Saka showed real composure. After Thibaut Courtois saved his penalty, he kept his cool and scored a vital goal later in the match. His mentality has been a huge asset for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Arsenal have built a team where young English players can thrive. They have trusted their academy and given youth a chance at the highest level. Saka is already a star, and Rice has gone to another level since arriving from West Ham. Now, Myles Lewis-Skelly could be the next big name. The teenage midfielder has impressed in youth competitions and is close to breaking into the first team.
Conclusion: Battle of the New Elite?
Arteta’s vision has turned Arsenal into one of Europe’s most exciting sides. Their mix of youth and experience has taken them to the Champions League semi-finals. Rice and Saka are leading the charge, but the next generation is already knocking on the door. Arsenal’s future looks as bright as its present. Big nights like these are shaping a golden era for the club.
PSG and Arsenal could both be among the teams to dominate in Europe over the next 10 years. Barcelona are also building a strong side off a new generation of young talent, so it is worth keeping an eye on their semi-final first leg against Inter on Wednesday too for soccer betting enthusiasts.
