Paul Merson has just predicted the winner of Arsenal vs PSG over both legs of the Champions League semi-final…

Paul Merson, the former Arsenal legend turned pundit, has made a bold prediction ahead of the highly anticipated UEFA Champions League semi-final clash between Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The two sides are set to meet over two legs in what promises to be one of the most thrilling matchups in recent Champions League history.

Despite a somewhat inconsistent Premier League campaign, Arsenal have looked like a different beast in Europe this season. Their stunning quarter-final triumph over Real Madrid, winning both legs comprehensively, has catapulted them into serious contention for the European crown.

Meanwhile, PSG, led by the tactically astute Luis Enrique, have also impressed. The French giants, blessed with attacking talents like Ousmane Dembele and Kylian Mbappe, overcame several hurdles to book their place in the semi-finals. However, past failures in the latter stages of the Champions League continue to cast a shadow over the Parisian club.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Merson revealed that he firmly believes Arsenal will come out on top against PSG across the two legs. While acknowledging PSG’s quality, Merson pointed out that history and Arsenal’s recent European form give the Gunners a distinct advantage.

“I believe Arsenal will win over two legs,” Merson stated confidently. “They have the momentum, the discipline, and the belief. PSG are a fantastic side, but Arsenal’s structure under Mikel Arteta is something different now.”

Merson also referenced PSG’s past struggles in critical knockout matches, noting that they tend to falter under pressure. He highlighted PSG’s performances against Premier League sides like Liverpool and Aston Villa as evidence of their vulnerability when it matters most.

“People forget that PSG played brilliantly in the first leg against Liverpool and still lost 1-0,” Merson explained. “And when they faced Aston Villa, despite their individual brilliance, they got bullied at times and found it hard to cope.”

Arsenal’s progress under Arteta has been built on a solid defensive foundation and midfield discipline, traits that Merson believes will be key in neutralizing PSG’s attacking threats. Players like William Saliba, Declan Rice, and Gabriel Magalhães have transformed Arsenal into one of the most defensively resolute teams in Europe.

“The difference with Arsenal now,” Merson added, “is that they don’t panic. They don’t get dragged into chaotic matches. They stay organized, they stay patient. That’s what you need against teams like PSG, who want you to lose your shape.”

Merson also pointed to Declan Rice as a major factor in why Arsenal could have the upper hand. The England international has been colossal in midfield, and Merson believes Rice’s physicality and reading of the game could cause PSG major headaches.

“Declan Rice is a monster in that midfield,” Merson said. “Vitinha, Joao Neves, Fabian Ruiz — they’re top players, but they struggled against Aston Villa’s midfield. If John McGinn could dominate them, imagine what Rice will do.”

Moreover, Arsenal’s ability to control the tempo of games has been a standout feature in Europe. Whether it’s slowing the game down to frustrate opponents or hitting them quickly on the break, Arteta’s side has shown tactical maturity beyond their years.

Another critical advantage Arsenal hold, according to Merson, is their superior mentality. While PSG often appear desperate to prove themselves in Europe, Arsenal are playing with a sense of freedom and resilience that’s incredibly dangerous for any opponent.

“In knockout football, it’s not always about who has the best players,” Merson emphasized. “It’s about discipline, focus, and knowing how to win ugly if you have to. Arsenal can do that now. They can suffer for 20 minutes and then kill the game off when the moment comes.”

While acknowledging that PSG have match-winners who can change a game in an instant, Merson insisted that over two legs, Arsenal’s consistency and tactical discipline would see them through.

“There’s no doubt that if you switch off for a second, Mbappe or Dembele can punish you,” Merson warned. “But over two legs, you need more than magic moments. You need organization, and that’s where Arsenal have the edge.”

Merson concluded by predicting that Arsenal would reach the Champions League final, calling it a monumental achievement for Arteta’s project and a testament to the club’s resurgence on the European stage.

“If they get through this — and I believe they will — it will be the greatest sign yet that Arsenal are truly back among Europe’s elite,” Merson declared. “Not just domestically, but where it really matters: in the Champions League.”

The first leg of Arsenal vs PSG promises to be a tactical chess match, with both sides looking to gain the early advantage. With Merson’s faith firmly placed in the Gunners, all eyes will now turn to see if Arteta’s men can justify the growing belief around North London.

One thing is certain: this semi-final clash between Arsenal and PSG is not just about talent — it’s about nerve, discipline, and seizing the moment. Arsenal fans can dare to dream, and with Merson’s backing, the belief is stronger than ever.