The Champions League quarterfinals are set with Arsenal, Inter, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain remaining. While PSG`s league phase finish was lower than expected, these four teams represent the strongest contenders. Notably, either PSG or Arsenal, neither of whom have ever won the Champions League, are guaranteed to reach the final. Meanwhile, Barcelona and Inter, both former champions, will battle for a spot.
With these teams in the final four, it`s time to assess their chances of lifting the Champions League trophy. Can Arsenal compete with the attacking prowess of Barcelona or PSG? Is this Inter team stronger than the one that reached the final two seasons ago against Manchester City?
4. Inter
Arsenal and Inter are very closely matched, making them difficult to separate. Lautaro Martinez has been a standout performer in this Champions League campaign, scoring eight goals and becoming increasingly influential as Inter progresses. Inter boasts a competition-leading eight clean sheets, showcasing Simone Inzaghi`s team`s defensive discipline and tactical flexibility. However, question marks remain about Inter`s ability to overcome teams with relentless attacking force beyond Martinez and Marcus Thuram.
Their victory over Bayern Munich is commendable, but Bayern is currently in a rebuilding phase, aspiring to reach Inter`s level. The upcoming match against Barcelona will be a crucial test of Inter`s capabilities against top-tier opposition.
3. Arsenal
Neutralizing Real Madrid`s attack is a significant achievement, especially considering Arsenal`s defensive lineup included a third-choice center back and an 18-year-old left back. Their performance against Real Madrid demonstrated a strong defensive structure, limiting dangerous opportunities despite a missed penalty from Bukayo Saka.
Arsenal`s chances of winning the tournament hinge on the fitness of key players like Saka and Martin Odegaard. Facing more balanced teams than Real Madrid, Mikel Arteta will need to ensure his team maintains its defensive solidity.
2. PSG
PSG has emerged as one of the most formidable attacking teams in world football recently. The dynamic play of Ousman Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia creates magical moments, and PSG`s forward momentum is difficult to stop. Even their full-backs contribute to the attack, while the midfield provides excellent balance.
PSG`s main weakness is the lack of a traditional number nine striker. Their attacking style makes them capable of high-scoring wins, but also vulnerable to conceding goals. A matchup against Arsenal could become a test of endurance and resilience.
1. Barcelona
Like Inter and Arsenal, Barcelona and PSG are closely matched, but Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha give Barcelona a slight edge. Both teams prioritize attack and possess talented young players like Lamine Yamal. A Champions League final between Barcelona and PSG would be highly anticipated, but both teams face significant hurdles to get there.
Barcelona`s offside trap could be exploited by strikers like Martinez, posing a challenge for their defense. However, Barcelona`s attack is multifaceted, with threats coming from multiple players, including midfielders like Pedri. Barcelona appears to have solutions for various challenges, making them the slight favorites over PSG.
Adrian Whitmore 
Benedict Kingsley