Despite their recent 7-1 thrashing of PSV Eindhoven, which secured them a spot in the Champions League quarter-finals, Rio Ferdinand is skeptical about Arsenal’s chances of winning the prestigious tournament this season.
He believes the Gunners would face tough competition from at least four other top teams, making it difficult for them to go all the way.
Arsenal’s Strong Performance Is Overshadowed by Concerns
Arsenal’s dominant win over PSV was historic, marking them as the first team to score seven goals in a Champions League away knockout match.
This victory came at a pivotal moment for Mikel Arteta’s side, following a couple of disappointing performances and a growing gap between them and Premier League leaders Liverpool.
However, Ferdinand isn’t fully convinced by their chances in Europe, despite the high-profile win.
Ferdinand’s Assessment: Arsenal Are the Fifth-Best Team in Their Half of the Draw
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ferdinand explained that Arsenal are likely only the fifth-best team in their half of the Champions League draw, which includes heavyweights like Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, and Paris Saint-Germain.
He feels that Arsenal would struggle against any of these teams, and that they’ve regressed this season compared to last year.
Recruitment Issues and Arsenal’s Setbacks
One of Ferdinand’s main concerns is Arsenal’s recruitment strategy.
He believes the team has not strengthened enough in key areas and that the current squad needs better additions to challenge for major titles.
Specifically, he pointed out that having Mikel Merino, a defensive midfielder, playing up front is not ideal when trying to win both the Premier League and the Champions League.
Ferdinand highlighted the missed opportunity to sign a new striker in January, emphasizing that an out-and-out centre-forward should have been a priority.
Darren Fletcher Joins Ferdinand in Criticizing Arsenal’s Chances
Joining Ferdinand in his assessment, TNT Sports commentator Darren Fletcher was even more dismissive of Arsenal’s prospects.
He pointed out that Arsenal’s path to the final would be extremely tough, especially considering the presence of Barcelona and Bayern Munich on the other side of the draw.
Fletcher stated that Arsenal are “miles off” winning the Champions League and even questioned their ability to compete for the Premier League title, suggesting that the team has taken a step backward this season.
Arsenal’s Tough Route to the Champions League Final
With teams like Real Madrid, Liverpool, and PSG all vying for a place in the semi-finals on Arsenal’s side of the draw, it looks like a tough road ahead for Arteta’s men.
On the other side, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, and Inter Milan also present major challenges, further complicating Arsenal’s hopes of securing their first Champions League title.
The Gunners’ journey to the final promises to be a difficult one, with some of Europe’s best teams standing in their way.