Former Erling Haaland has reportedly backed Paris Saint-Germain to defeat Arsenal F.C. in the 2026 UEFA Champions League final, adding even more drama to one of the most highly anticipated clashes in recent football history.
With the final set to take place at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest on May 30, fans across the world are already debating which side has the edge heading into the showdown.
Haaland, widely regarded as one of the best strikers in world football, is no stranger to elite European competition. The Manchester City star has consistently competed at the highest level in the Champions League and understands what it takes to win major finals.
According to growing online reports and fan discussions, Haaland believes PSG’s experience in Europe could prove decisive against Arsenal. The French giants enter the final as defending Champions League winners after lifting the trophy last season, and many experts believe their experience under pressure gives them a slight advantage.
PSG’s route to the final has been extremely impressive. Luis Enrique’s side overcame some of Europe’s strongest clubs, including Liverpool, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Monaco during their campaign. Their attacking football, tactical flexibility, and squad depth have made them one of the most feared teams in Europe.
Haaland is reportedly especially impressed by PSG’s attacking quality. Players like Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Désiré Doué have been in sensational form throughout the season, helping PSG score goals consistently against elite opposition. Dembélé in particular has received praise for combining attacking brilliance with defensive work rate, something Luis Enrique values highly.
While Arsenal have earned enormous praise for their incredible season under Mikel Arteta, Haaland supposedly feels PSG’s experience in big European nights could make the difference. Arsenal are aiming to win the Champions League for the very first time in their history, while PSG are chasing back-to-back European titles.
This season has already been historic for Arsenal. The North London club recently secured their first Premier League title in 22 years and have established themselves as one of the best teams in Europe. Their defensive organisation, pressing structure, and midfield quality have earned admiration from managers and pundits alike.
In fact, even PSG manager Luis Enrique recently described Arsenal as “the world’s best” team out of possession, highlighting the respect Arsenal now command across Europe.
Despite that praise, many still see PSG as slight favourites going into the final. Betting odds and several football analysts currently lean toward the French champions due to their experience and attacking firepower.
Haaland’s backing of PSG will certainly catch attention because of his long-running rivalry with Arsenal in the Premier League title race. Over the past few years, Manchester City and Arsenal have battled intensely for domestic dominance, creating one of modern football’s biggest rivalries. That history makes his prediction even more interesting to supporters from both clubs.
The final is expected to be a fascinating tactical battle between Arteta and Luis Enrique. Arsenal will likely focus on controlling possession and pressing aggressively, while PSG may rely on quick transitions and the creativity of their attacking stars. Small moments could decide everything — a defensive error, a piece of individual brilliance, or perhaps a moment of magic from one of the world’s biggest players.
For PSG fans, Haaland’s prediction will be viewed as another sign that Europe respects the strength of their current squad. Winning consecutive Champions League titles would cement PSG’s place among the modern elite clubs of European football.
For Arsenal supporters, however, the comments may simply add more motivation. The Gunners have repeatedly shown this season that they thrive under pressure and are capable of defeating any opponent when playing at their best.
Whether Haaland’s prediction proves correct remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the 2026 UEFA Champions League final between Arsenal and PSG promises to be an unforgettable occasion for football fans everywhere.