Chelsea captain Reece James has reportedly backed Arsenal to defeat Paris Saint-Germain in the upcoming UEFA Champions League final, insisting that Mikel Arteta’s side have all the tools needed to “humble” the French champions if they remain disciplined and organised throughout the match.
The comments have quickly sparked reactions across the football world, especially because James knows exactly what it takes to compete at the highest European level. The England international was part of the Chelsea side that won the Champions League in 2021, playing a key role in shutting down Manchester City during the final in Porto.
According to reports circulating online this week, James believes Arsenal’s structure without the ball could become the biggest factor in deciding the final against PSG. The Chelsea defender is said to admire the way Arteta has transformed Arsenal into one of Europe’s most tactically disciplined sides, capable of controlling games both in possession and defensively.
His opinion also echoes recent praise from PSG manager Luis Enrique, who described Arsenal as “the best team in the world” without the ball ahead of the final in Budapest.
That statement alone says a lot about how Arsenal are now viewed across Europe.
For years, Arsenal were often criticised for being too open in big matches, especially in Europe. But under Arteta, the North London side has developed into a far more balanced and mature team. Their pressing, defensive shape, and collective organisation have become major strengths, and many believe those qualities could frustrate PSG’s dangerous attack.
James reportedly feels Arsenal cannot afford to lose concentration against a PSG side filled with pace and creativity. Players such as Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Désiré Doué have been central to PSG’s impressive European run this season. However, Arsenal’s defensive partnership of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães has earned widespread praise for keeping some of Europe’s best attackers quiet.
The former Wigan loanee reportedly believes that if Arsenal maintain compactness between midfield and defence, PSG will struggle to find spaces in dangerous areas. That tactical discipline has been one of the defining features of Arsenal’s campaign this season.
The Gunners recently ended their 22-year wait for a Premier League title and now stand on the verge of making even more history by winning their first-ever Champions League trophy.
Their road to the final has been impressive. Arsenal overcame several major European sides and showed resilience in difficult knockout matches. Meanwhile, PSG reached the final after eliminating some of Europe’s strongest clubs, including Bayern Munich and Liverpool.
Because of that, many fans and pundits are expecting a tactical battle rather than a one-sided final.
James allegedly believes Arsenal’s mentality will be crucial. Staying calm under pressure, avoiding defensive mistakes, and resisting PSG’s aggressive pressing could determine whether the London side finally conquers Europe.
Another reason Arsenal fans may feel encouraged is the current uncertainty surrounding Dembélé’s fitness. The French winger recently suffered an injury scare during a domestic match, although PSG remain hopeful he will recover in time for the final.
Even if Dembélé starts, Arsenal’s defensive organisation will likely be tested from the first minute. James reportedly feels that discipline — not individual brilliance — could ultimately separate the two teams on the night.
Many supporters online have praised James for recognising Arsenal’s evolution under Arteta. While Chelsea and Arsenal share one of English football’s fiercest rivalries, several football figures outside the club have recently acknowledged Arsenal’s growth into a genuine European powerhouse.
Arteta himself has repeatedly spoken about the importance of unity, intensity, and tactical structure. Those ideas have clearly shaped Arsenal’s identity this season, and they now head into the biggest match in the club’s modern history with confidence growing rapidly.
The final, scheduled to take place in Budapest later this month, is expected to attract global attention as Arsenal attempt to win the Champions League for the first time since their heartbreaking defeat to Barcelona in the 2006 final.
If James’ prediction proves accurate, Arsenal fans could be celebrating one of the greatest nights in the club’s history.