Arsène Wenger Identifies Bayern Munich and PSG as Arsenal’s Biggest Champions League Threats

Arsène Wenger believes Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain pose the greatest non-Premier League threat to Arsenal’s Champions League ambitions this season.

The Gunners extended their perfect record in the competition on Tuesday night with a 3–0 win over Slavia Prague, making it four victories from four matches under Mikel Arteta in this year’s European campaign.

Elsewhere, Bayern Munich also maintained their flawless run with a crucial 2–1 victory over reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain at the Parc des Princes, while Liverpool edged Real Madrid 1–0 at Anfield to move into the top eight of the Champions League table.

Tottenham Hotspur remain just a point behind after their 4–0 win over FC Copenhagen, while Manchester City can leapfrog both Liverpool and Spurs if they defeat Borussia Dortmund at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday. Chelsea and Newcastle United could also move level on points with Liverpool if they win their respective games against Qarabag and Athletic Bilbao.

Wenger: ‘PSG and Bayern Will Focus Entirely on Europe’

Speaking to beIN Sports, the former Arsenal manager said that PSG and Bayern are the most likely teams outside England to challenge for the title this season, citing their dominance in domestic competitions as a key advantage.

“I would say they’re the two teams who can win the Champions League this season outside England,” Wenger said.

“Of course, another contender could be Real Madrid, but Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain are the main two. Nobody doubts whether they’ll win their domestic leagues — PSG will win the title in France, and Bayern have virtually secured the Bundesliga already — so their entire focus will be on Europe.

“They’ll have to battle against the five Premier League sides, and that will make things very interesting. PSG are not yet at their best, Real Madrid and Liverpool are still finding their rhythm, but Bayern look to be in full power.”

Deeney: ‘Arsenal and Bayern Are the Teams to Beat’

Former Premier League striker Troy Deeney also named Arsenal and Bayern Munich among his top contenders for this year’s Champions League crown.

Speaking on CBS Sports, Deeney said:

“I think we all agreed that PSG, Bayern Munich, and Arsenal would be in the top three. Beyond that, it changes week to week.

“After Bayern’s win over PSG, you could argue they should be top. But equally, Arsenal are leading both the Premier League and their Champions League group, and it’s fair to say the Premier League is more competitive than the Bundesliga.

“For Arsenal to be top with eight clean sheets in a row, you can make a strong case for them — but Bayern Munich are right up there.”