Clarence Seedorf Backs Arsenal as Champions League Favourites After PSG Thriller

Former Netherlands international Clarence Seedorf has tipped Arsenal as favourites to win the UEFA Champions League following Paris Saint-Germain’s dramatic 5–4 victory over Bayern Munich.

PSG edged a pulsating encounter at the Parc des Princes on Tuesday night, with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Ousmane Dembélé both scoring twice, while João Neves added a header from a set-piece. Bayern responded with goals from Harry Kane, Michael Olise, Dayot Upamecano and Luis Díaz, as the French side saw a commanding 5–2 lead nearly slip away.

Defensive Concerns Overshadow Entertaining Encounter

Despite the high-quality attacking display, the match drew criticism for its defensive shortcomings. Former England striker Wayne Rooney, speaking during post-match analysis, highlighted the lack of defensive discipline from both teams.

“I think Luis Enrique is a top coach, but at 5–2 he should have shut the game down — get players behind the ball, make it difficult and see the tie out,” Rooney said.

“Vincent Kompany has an attack-minded side, but it’s clear they have not worked enough on defending. Some of the goals we saw were basic errors.

“At this level, you expect better. It was entertaining, but there was a lack of maturity defensively.”

Rooney added that, despite the defeat, Bayern may feel encouraged heading into the second leg.

“To come away only one goal down, knowing you can score against PSG, they will feel they have a strong chance if they tighten things up.”

Seedorf Highlights Arsenal’s Defensive Strength

Seedorf, a four-time Champions League winner, pointed to Arsenal’s defensive solidity as a key factor that could set them apart from the remaining contenders.

“Ask the goalkeepers if they’re satisfied — they are not. Keeping a clean sheet has always been fundamental,” Seedorf said.

“We have seen a team like Arsenal make the difference this season through their defensive organisation, keeping numerous clean sheets and progressing strongly.

“If I had to choose one team capable of going all the way because of that strength, it would be Arsenal.”

Focus Turns to Arsenal’s Semi-Final Clash

Arsenal are set to face Atlético Madrid in the first leg of their semi-final on Wednesday, with expectations growing following Seedorf’s endorsement.

Their balance between defensive discipline and attacking quality has made them one of the most consistent sides in the competition this season.

Questions Remain for PSG and Bayern

Despite PSG taking a narrow advantage into the return leg, concerns remain over their ability to manage games effectively, particularly after conceding four goals from a winning position.

Rooney reiterated that such defensive lapses cannot be ignored at this stage of the competition.

“It doesn’t matter if you win — conceding four or five goals at this level is not acceptable. There have to be serious questions,” he said.