Paul Merson has made his prediction for who will come out on top between Arsenal and PSG across both legs of their Champions League semi-final clash.

Paul Merson has recently weighed in with his prediction for the upcoming UEFA Champions League semi-final clash between Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). This fixture promises to be one of the most exciting and closely contested ties in the history of European club football.

Despite Arsenal not hitting their best form in the Premier League this season, their remarkable quarter-final triumph over Real Madrid has sent a strong message across Europe, marking them as serious contenders for the title. Meanwhile, PSG, led by the tactical expertise of Luis Enrique and boasting the lively Ousmane Dembele in their attacking lineup, remain a formidable opponent for any side they face.

Merson, a former Arsenal star, shared his belief that Arsenal would edge past PSG and secure a spot in the Champions League final. He expressed initial confidence in the Gunners’ chances, acknowledging PSG’s quality but pointing out their history of falling short in high-pressure knockout ties, including defeats to teams like Liverpool and Aston Villa.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Merson remarked, “I fancy Arsenal to win over two legs.” He recalled PSG’s strong start against Liverpool in the first leg of their earlier encounter but emphasized that they still ended up losing 1-0 — a result often overlooked when assessing their form.

The former midfielder reiterated his support for Arsenal’s chances, highlighting their recent performances, particularly their ability to outplay Villa and secure a crucial late goal for a 3-1 advantage in the quarter-finals. Although Arsenal faced tense moments in the second leg at Villa Park, they managed to hold their nerve.

Merson also pointed to Mikel Arteta’s influence on the Arsenal squad, emphasizing the team’s discipline and organization as key attributes that could give them the upper hand against PSG. He slightly favors Arsenal to advance, citing their composure and tactical discipline as decisive factors.

While many might still back PSG, Merson argued that Arsenal hold a noticeable advantage. He further highlighted the role of Declan Rice, suggesting that the Arsenal midfielder could be instrumental in determining the outcome.

Given the struggles of PSG’s midfield trio — Vitinha, Joao Neves, and Fabian Ruiz — against Aston Villa’s physicality, Rice’s defensive prowess and athleticism could prove difficult for Luis Enrique’s side to handle.