Former Vincent Kompany has reportedly backed Arsenal to defeat Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League final, claiming that Mikel Arteta’s side have shown the mentality, discipline, and tactical maturity required to conquer Europe this season.
The former Manchester City captain, widely respected for his football intelligence and leadership qualities, is believed to have praised Arsenal’s remarkable growth under Mikel Arteta ahead of what promises to be one of the biggest matches in the club’s modern history. Kompany reportedly believes Arsenal’s balance between defensive solidity and attacking creativity could prove too much for PSG on the grandest stage of European football.
According to sources close to the situation, Kompany has been particularly impressed by Arsenal’s performances throughout the knockout stages of the competition. The Belgian manager reportedly pointed to the team’s composure under pressure, aggressive pressing structure, and tactical organization as reasons why he believes the North London club are favourites to lift the trophy.
Speaking about Arsenal’s evolution this season, Kompany is said to have admired the mentality Arteta has built within the squad. He reportedly claimed that Arsenal no longer look like a young side learning how to compete, but instead resemble a team fully prepared to win major honours against Europe’s elite.
The comments have generated major excitement among Arsenal supporters, many of whom see Kompany’s backing as a significant endorsement given his experience at the highest level of football. During his legendary playing career at Manchester City, Kompany won multiple Premier League titles and captained one of the most dominant English teams of the modern era. His understanding of pressure matches and title-winning mentality gives extra weight to his opinion.
Kompany reportedly highlighted Arsenal’s midfield as one of the biggest reasons they could overcome PSG. He is believed to be a huge admirer of Declan Rice, whose commanding displays throughout the campaign have earned praise across Europe. The Belgian also reportedly praised captain Martin Ødegaard for controlling the tempo of games and inspiring the squad in crucial moments.
Defensively, Arsenal have established themselves as one of the toughest teams to break down this season. Kompany reportedly believes the partnership at the back, combined with the discipline of the entire team, gives Arsenal a crucial advantage against PSG’s dangerous attack. While PSG possess world-class quality in forward areas, Kompany is said to believe Arsenal’s pressing structure and defensive organization can frustrate the French champions.
The former defender also reportedly praised Arsenal’s mentality in big matches this season. He pointed to their performances against elite opponents both domestically and in Europe as proof that the squad has matured significantly under Arteta’s leadership. According to Kompany, the confidence Arsenal now show in possession and without the ball reflects a team that truly believes it belongs among Europe’s best.
Despite backing Arsenal, Kompany reportedly acknowledged that PSG remain an extremely dangerous side capable of changing matches instantly through individual brilliance. The French giants have been one of the most entertaining teams in the Champions League this season and possess players capable of deciding finals in a single moment. However, Kompany allegedly argued that Arsenal’s collective structure and unity could ultimately make the difference.
Many football fans have also noted the connection between Kompany and Arteta from their time together at Manchester City under Pep Guardiola. The pair were both key figures in Guardiola’s early success at City and are known to share deep tactical understanding of the game. Some supporters believe Kompany’s admiration for Arsenal’s style reflects similarities between Arteta’s current project and the dominant Manchester City sides they once helped build together.
Social media quickly reacted to Kompany’s reported prediction, with Arsenal fans celebrating the comments and viewing them as another sign that Europe is beginning to take Arteta’s side seriously. Many supporters praised the transformation Arsenal have undergone over the past few years, going from a rebuilding project to genuine contenders for the biggest trophies in world football.
For Arsenal players, external backing from respected football figures may only add to the growing belief around the squad ahead of the final. The opportunity to win the Champions League would represent a historic achievement for the club and potentially cement Arteta’s status among the elite managers in European football.
As anticipation continues to build ahead of the showdown with PSG, Kompany’s reported support has only added more drama and excitement to an already massive occasion. Arsenal fans will now hope his prediction proves accurate and that Arteta’s side can deliver one unforgettable performance to bring European glory back to North London.