Ernesto Valverde, the manager of Athletic Club (Bilbao), has stated that Arsenal must be considered one of the favourites to win the 2025-26 Champions League. He made the comment ahead of Athletic’s opening group-stage fixture against Arsenal at San Mamés.
Why the View That Arsenal Is a Favourite Makes Sense
Valverde’s claim isn’t unfounded. Here are the reasons why Arsenal are being tipped among the contenders:
- Recent Deep Run: Arsenal made it to the semi-finals last season before being knocked out by the eventual winners PSG. That shows they were close and have experience at that advanced stage.
- Squad Quality & Depth: They have a strong, well-balanced squad, with players who can perform in high-pressure games. Arteta’s tactical setup has improved, and the team has shown both attacking flair and more defensive solidity.
- Momentum & Confidence: There’s belief both inside and outside the club that Arsenal are ready to compete at the highest level. They have confidence from last season, plus ambition and expectations.
- Arteta’s Leadership: The manager has built a culture of competitiveness, consistency, and resilience. That intangible winning spirit Valverde mentions is often what separates teams that reach semis/finals from those who go all the way.
The Challenges They’ll Need to Overcome
Even if Arsenal are among favourites, there are obstacles:
- Winning the Final Stretch: Getting through the group stage is one thing; knockout rounds demand consistency, mental strength, and avoiding costly mistakes.
- Competition from Other Big Clubs: Teams like PSG, Barcelona, Manchester City, etc., will also be pushing hard. Injuries, form, fixture congestion will test Arsenal.
- Experience in Finals: Arsenal haven’t won the Champions League before; last time they reached the final was in 2006 (well before many current players). Handling that pressure will be new territory.
- Away Matches & Margins: Champions League ties are often decided on small details—away goals (or performance), set-pieces, refereeing decisions, margins of error.
