Arsenal return to action in the Champions League on Monday night as the Gunners host Dinamo Zagreb.
Arsenal’s meeting with Dinamo Zagreb holds great importance as a win could see Mikel Arteta’s side move within touching distance of the round of 16.
A win is needed for the Gunners to reinstall some confidence in what has been an inconsistent start to 2025.
While the game looks to be in Arsenal’s favour in front of a home crowd, Dinamo Zagreb mustn’t be overlooked with a legend of the game at the helm.
Dinamo Zagreb boss Fabio Cannavaro shares Mikel Arteta wish
In December, Dinamo Zagreb announced the arrival of Fabio Cannavaro as manager, with the clash against Arsenal set to be the Italian’s first game in charge.
Cannavaro will be tested against the Gunners in a statement first fixture for the former player, who understands the game better than most.
Having a World Cup and Ballon d’Or winner as a coach is incredibly insightful for the Dinamo Zagreb squad, who will be eager to test Arsenal in the Champions League.
Such desire was echoed by Cannavaro in his pre-match press conference.
“We all know the difference between Arsenal and us, but we will try to do everything to make their job difficult,” the Neopolitan said.
Cannavaro went on to comment on Arteta as his opponent, revealing one wish he has for the Arsenal manager in the near future.
“We played a lot of times, and I also watched Arsenal a lot. I like his [Arteta’s]way of managing the game and his idea of the game. I want him to win a trophy because he absolutely deserves it.”
The Dinamo Zagreb boss expressed his hopes for Arteta to soon win a trophy with Arsenal, something fans at the Emirates would certainly love to see.
The chances of Arsenal winning the Champions League revealed
Arteta has three medals to his name at Arsenal, winning the 2020 FA Cup and two Community Shields at Wembley.
The boss would certainly like to add to his collection given the progression of his squad over the previous three years, with the Champions League the ultimate dream for the Gunners.
| # | Club | Opta probability |
| 1 | Liverpool | 22.22% |
| 2 | Inter Milan | 18.1% |
| 3 | Arsenal | 13.6% |
| 4 | Barcelona | 7% |
| 5 | Real Madrid | 6.5% |
Opta data has provided the probability of Arsenal winning the competition this year, placing the North Londoners as the third most likely club, which might come as a surprise.
Reigning champions Real Madrid are predicted to have a 6.5% chance of reclaiming the prize, with Arteta’s chances significantly higher at 13.6%.
Fans would love to see the Gunners’ next trophy come in the form of European glory, with Cannavaro having the opportunity to play a part in the dream on Monday night.
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