Arsène Wenger has expressed strong confidence in Arsenal’s ability to defeat Paris Saint-Germain and secure a place in the Champions League final this season.

The former Arsenal manager praised the team’s improved defensive structure and believes they have what it takes to go all the way.

Arsenal’s path to the semifinals was highlighted by an emphatic victory over Real Madrid, a 15-time European champion, which marked the club’s return to the last four for the first time in 16 years.

In the quarter-final tie, Declan Rice delivered a standout performance, scoring two spectacular free-kicks to ignite Arsenal’s dominance. Mikel Merino added a third goal in a convincing 3-0 home win.

The Gunners carried their momentum into the return leg at the Bernabeu, with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli finding the net to seal the aggregate win, despite a lone response from Vinicius Junior for Real Madrid.

As Arsenal now prepare to face PSG at the Emirates, the French champions approach the clash with just one win from their last four matches across all competitions.

Under manager Luis Enrique, PSG have undergone a transformation in playing style and remain in pursuit of a Champions League title that has eluded them, much like their English counterparts.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Wenger emphasized that reaching this stage means facing only top-tier opposition and that Arsenal’s chances hinge on their form and discipline.

He noted the importance of avoiding red cards or emotional reactions, highlighting how defensive consistency could be decisive over the two legs.

Wenger’s sentiments were echoed by Freddie Ljungberg, a member of Arsenal’s 2006 final squad that fell short against Barcelona. Ljungberg believes Mikel Arteta’s current team has a legitimate shot at lifting the trophy.

He pointed to the strength of Arsenal’s set-pieces, the confidence of Declan Rice, and the game-changing ability of Bukayo Saka as key factors in their favor. Ljungberg remarked that Saka’s lethal quality could be the difference and that Rice’s ability to win the ball and launch counters would be vital.

Despite falling short in the Premier League title race, Arsenal are viewed by both Wenger and Ljungberg as serious contenders for European glory. Ljungberg was adamant that this could be their moment, describing their Champions League opportunity as a realistic path to silverware.

Paul Scholes, the legendary former Manchester United midfielder, has admitted he recognized Liverpool’s title-winning potential early in the season.

The moment came during Liverpool’s dominant 3-0 win over Manchester United at Old Trafford on September 1.

Though Manchester United were far from their best, Scholes was impressed by the balance and strength of Liverpool’s performance that day, which signaled to him that the Premier League trophy could be heading back to Anfield.

Liverpool officially clinched the 2024 Premier League title after a commanding 5-1 victory over Tottenham at Anfield. Although they only needed a single point to secure the title, Arne Slot’s squad made a resounding statement with their emphatic win.

This latest triumph draws Liverpool level with Manchester United on 20 English league titles, underlining the club’s resurgence and consistency throughout the campaign.

Scholes, speaking to TNT Sports, highlighted how the team’s depth in goal-scoring and the leadership of key figures like Virgil van Dijk and Alisson Becker were instrumental in their success. Even though Alisson missed some matches due to injury, Van Dijk’s presence in defense remained pivotal.

Scholes acknowledged that Liverpool may not have faced their usual level of competition from Manchester City or Arsenal this season, but he stressed that even with more pressure, they likely would have found another gear.

Reflecting on the broader picture, Scholes noted how Liverpool’s dominance this year was not just about a few strong performances. From early November, they consistently held the top spot in the league.

Their composure, tactical discipline, and attacking firepower set them apart. While other teams like Arsenal dropped too many points through draws and City lacked their usual sharpness, Liverpool simply looked a class above the rest.

Scholes also touched on the historical significance of this title. When he retired, Liverpool were two titles behind United. Now, with both clubs tied at 20 league titles, he candidly remarked that Liverpool seem better positioned to win another title before Manchester United do.

This season, Liverpool have been remarkably consistent. They’ve only suffered two defeats in the league and are projected to finish with over 90 points. Their success is particularly impressive considering they did not overhaul their squad last summer. Still, Scholes believes there are areas that need reinforcement.

According to him, Liverpool could benefit from defensive reinforcements, especially if Trent Alexander-Arnold were to depart or continue struggling with fitness. Conor Bradley has performed admirably but has had injury issues as well.

Scholes suggested the team might need a new left-back given Andy Robertson’s form at times, and potentially a second-choice goalkeeper if Caoimhin Kelleher leaves.

He also mentioned that the midfield could use more depth, especially in the holding role. While Ryan Gravenberch has been strong, another injury there could expose a lack of cover.

Up front, despite having arguably the best attacking options in the league, Scholes hinted that Liverpool might still need to bring in two more forwards, particularly if Federico Chiesa is not part of the squad next season.

AFC Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has pledged his support to former club Athletic Bilbao as they prepare to face Manchester United in the Europa League semi-finals.

The Spanish side will host United in the first leg at San Mames, aiming to gain an edge in the tie and move one step closer to European glory.

Despite United’s turbulent domestic season, they remain hopeful that European success could redeem their campaign.

Iraola, who spent the majority of his playing career at Athletic Bilbao, revealed his intention to speak with current manager Ernesto Valverde to provide insights into United’s tactics.

Having already guided Bournemouth to a 3-0 victory at Old Trafford earlier this season and a 1-1 draw in the recent encounter at the Vitality Stadium, Iraola possesses valuable knowledge of the Premier League giants.

When asked about the possibility of contacting Valverde for tactical discussions ahead of the clash, Iraola responded affirmatively, stating that their strong personal relationship makes it likely.

The Basque coach played more than 500 games for the club and regards Valverde as one of the most influential figures in his football journey.

He expressed admiration for his former mentor, calling him the most special coach he ever had and wishing him success in the tournament.

Iraola also made it clear that his support for Athletic Club remains strong, expressing hope that they can go all the way and lift the Europa League trophy. He fondly recalled Bilbao’s 2012 victory over United, a career highlight for him as captain during their famous win in that edition of the competition.

In a separate development, Bournemouth have filed an appeal with the Premier League following the red card shown to striker Evanilson during the weekend’s draw with United. The Brazilian was dismissed in the 70th minute after a challenge on Noussair Mazraoui, a decision that left Iraola visibly frustrated.

He argued that Evanilson had slipped during the incident and did not make dangerous contact, stressing that such accidents should not result in suspensions.

Iraola pointed out the harsh consequences of the decision, noting that the forward now faces a three-match ban. He also highlighted a first-half incident where Casemiro appeared to catch Evanilson in the chest, which went unpunished.

The Bournemouth boss criticized the use of VAR, suggesting that only the worst angle was reviewed, leading to an unfair outcome.

As Bournemouth focus on their appeal, Iraola will also keep a close eye on his beloved Athletic Club, hoping his advice can help them overcome Manchester United and move a step closer to European triumph.