Arsene Wenger Backs Arsenal for Historic UEFA Champions League Victory

Arsene Wenger, the former Arsenal manager, has voiced his support for the Gunners as they aim for their first UEFA Champions League title. With a rich history and a strong team, Wenger believes Arsenal has the potential to triumph against Paris Saint-Germain in the final. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining focus and leveraging their defensive strengths. Wenger's insights into the team's evolution and his mentorship of current manager Mikel Arteta add depth to his predictions. As Arsenal prepares for this historic match, fans are eager to see if they can finally lift the coveted trophy.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 30, 2026, 02:10 IST

Wenger's Support for Arsenal's Champions League Ambitions

London [UK], May 29: Arsene Wenger, the former manager of Arsenal, has expressed his confidence in the Gunners clinching their first UEFA Champions League title. He emphasized the club's evolution into a winning culture over the years and hopes to see the trophy at the Emirates Stadium.

As Arsenal prepares to face Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest on Saturday, they aim for a remarkable double, having already secured the Premier League title. The last time they reached the Champions League final was in the 2005-06 season, where they narrowly lost to Barcelona 2-1.

Wenger, who managed Arsenal from 1996 to 2018, leading them to two domestic doubles and a record seven FA Cup victories, stated, "I want this trophy to go to Emirates Stadium because it is missing there. We were so close before, just 13 minutes away from winning it, so I hope it happens this time."

He believes that Arsenal has a solid chance in the final, saying, "I still think it’s 50/50, but if I had to choose, I would lean towards Arsenal over PSG." Wenger highlighted the importance of maintaining focus during the final, noting that Arsenal's defensive strength is crucial.

While acknowledging PSG's formidable attacking capabilities, he pointed out that Arsenal possesses individual talent and excels in set pieces, which could be pivotal in the match.

Wenger, now the FIFA Chief of Global Football Development, played a significant role in transforming Arsenal into a powerhouse in English and European football. He was instrumental in bringing current manager Mikel Arteta to the club from Everton in 2011, where he later became captain.

Reflecting on Arsenal's journey, Wenger remarked that the club has earned the right to compete for the title, having qualified for the Champions League for 20 consecutive years since his arrival in 1996. He believes that Arsenal has built a legacy that positions them to win the trophy.

Wenger expressed excitement about seeing Arsenal in the final and is optimistic about a thrilling match. He also praised Arteta, whom he mentored during his playing career, for his managerial skills and dedication.

"Arteta was always focused and committed, traits that are essential for a manager. He understands the game deeply and has the respect of the players," Wenger noted.

On offering advice to Arteta ahead of the final, Wenger said, "Stay relaxed and instill confidence in your team. He knows the players better than anyone and should maintain the unity that has been key to their success this season."