Arsenal came close to reaching the Champions League final but fell short. To go all the way next time, they must fix a few key issues. Here are three important things the team must improve to become true title contenders.
Arsenal’s Crucial Champions League Semifinal
Arsenal’s 2024/25 season is on the line as they face Paris Saint-Germain in the second leg of their Champions League semifinal. The first leg ended in a 1-0 defeat for the Gunners, leaving them with a one-goal deficit to overcome in Paris. Despite a lackluster performance in the first leg, Arsenal still have a chance to reach their first-ever Champions League final. Their recent struggles, including a loss to Bournemouth in the league, raise questions about their ability to make a comeback. However, the good news is that only one goal separates the two teams, and Arsenal has shown their ability to defeat top teams, as seen in their quarterfinal win over Real Madrid.
To help Arsenal reach the final, here are three key areas where they need to improve.
The Return of Thomas Partey
Champions League One of the biggest absences for Arsenal in the first leg against PSG was Thomas Partey, who was suspended after receiving a yellow card in the quarterfinal against Real Madrid. In his absence, Arsenal’s midfield struggled, especially with PSG exploiting spaces in central areas. Ousmane Dembélé, in particular, took advantage of Arsenal’s weakened midfield, opening the scoring for PSG.
Partey’s return will be a game-changer for Arsenal. His presence in midfield will help fill the gaps PSG exposed, especially with Dembélé, who is set to start despite an injury. Partey’s defensive qualities will allow Declan Rice to move into more advanced positions, providing an attacking threat. Rice has been in good form lately, with three goals and two assists in his last seven matches. With Partey protecting the defense, Rice can focus on his attacking duties, giving Arsenal a better balance in both defense and attack.
The Importance of Mikel Merino’s Physicality
Another key player Arsenal will rely on in the second leg is Mikel Merino. With Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz both injured, Merino has stepped up as a makeshift center-forward. His physical presence has been a surprise asset, providing Arsenal with a target man who can hold up the ball and help the team maintain possession.
Merino’s strength and ability to challenge PSG’s defenders will be vital in the second leg. He offers a focal point for Arsenal’s attack, which was lacking in the first leg. Leandro Trossard, who has shared minutes with Merino at the center forward position, struggled to make an impact against PSG. Merino, on the other hand, has been more effective, as seen in his assists during their away game at Madrid.
Merino’s physicality can also help Arsenal’s wingers, allowing them more space to run behind PSG’s high defensive line. By winning aerial duels and holding off defenders, Merino can create space for his teammates and give Arsenal a better chance to score.
Reviving Set-Piece Threats
Arsenal has been one of the most dangerous teams from set-pieces this season. With the help of set-piece coach Nicolas Jover, Arsenal has scored 14 times from set-pieces in the Premier League alone. Set-pieces have been a key source of creativity for Arsenal, especially when attacking play has been difficult to come by.
In the quarterfinal against Real Madrid, Declan Rice scored two crucial free-kick goals. In the first leg against PSG, Mikel Merino was close to scoring from a set-piece, but an offside flag denied him an equalizer. Set-pieces could be a critical weapon for Arsenal in the second leg, especially given PSG’s lack of tall players. By using their aerial strength, Arsenal can challenge PSG’s defense and create scoring opportunities.
Conclusion
Arsenal’s hopes of reaching the Champions League final depend on improving in key areas ahead of their second-leg clash with PSG. With the return of Thomas Partey, the physicality of Mikel Merino, and a renewed focus on set-pieces, Arsenal can turn the tide in their favor. If they can fix these issues, they will be in a strong position to secure a place in the final and make history by winning their first-ever Champions League title.
