Gary Lineker has given his verdict on Arsenal’s chances of completing an historic double.
The former England striker may have stopped short of backing Mikel Arteta’s side to beat PSG, but his words may give Gunners supporters plenty of encouragement.
Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast in the wake of Arsenal’s Premier League title confirmation, Lineker gave his thoughts on the Champions League final in Budapest on May 30.
“I still think they’re second favourites because PSG, as we know, are an incredibly good side,” Lineker said.
“But Arsenal, if anyone can beat them, it’s probably Arsenal. And what a double that would be.”
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Of course, Lineker is not alone in considering PSG the favourites — Jamie Carragher has also backed the Parisians to lift the trophy — but he does single Arsenal out of all the clubs in Europe as the side most capable of stopping the defending champions.
Arsenal aim for historic Premier League and Champions League double
The timing of the title confirmation surely could not have been better from Arsenal’s perspective.
Relieved of the pressure of the title race, Arteta’s side can now turn their full focus to Budapest.
They have ten days to prepare for the biggest game in the club’s history, with no distractions and without looking over their shoulder.
Now it goes without saying, PSG are a formidable opponent. Luis Enrique’s side have been the dominant force in European football this season and will arrive as worthy favourites.
But Arsenal have already shown this campaign that they are capable of competing with the very best.
They deservedly beat Bayern Munich 3-1 at the Emirates in the league phase of the competition and also dispatched of a tricky Atletico Madrid side in the semi-finals.
With the mood so high and David Raya in the form of his life, they have the momentum and confidence of a club that has just ended a 22-year wait for a league title.
Like Lineker says, if anyone can beat PSG, it’s probably Arsenal.
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