Former Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney has tipped Arsenal to defeat Paris Saint-Germain in the 2026 UEFA Champions League final, backing Mikel Arteta’s side to finally conquer Europe after what has already been a historic campaign.
Rooney, who knows exactly what it takes to perform on the biggest European stage after winning the Champions League with Manchester United in 2008, reportedly believes Arsenal’s balance, discipline, and mentality give them the edge heading into the showdown in Budapest.
The final, which will be played at the famous Puskás Aréna on May 30, is being viewed as one of the biggest matches in Arsenal’s modern history. After years of rebuilding under manager Mikel Arteta, the North London side are now just one match away from lifting the first Champions League trophy in the club’s history.
Rooney is said to be particularly impressed by Arsenal’s maturity throughout this European campaign. The Gunners navigated a difficult path to the final, overcoming some of Europe’s toughest opposition while showing tactical flexibility, defensive strength, and composure under pressure.
According to reports surrounding Rooney’s comments, the former England striker believes Arsenal’s midfield could ultimately decide the contest. Players like Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard have been central to Arsenal’s success this season, controlling matches with intelligence, energy, and technical quality.
Rice, in particular, has emerged as one of the most influential players in Europe this season. His ability to break up attacks while also driving Arsenal forward has transformed Arteta’s side into a complete team capable of competing with the very best. Analysts ahead of the final have also highlighted Rice as one of the key factors that could hurt PSG.
Rooney reportedly feels Arsenal’s defensive structure may also prove decisive against PSG’s dangerous frontline. Arsenal have developed a reputation as one of the strongest defensive units in Europe, with players like William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães forming a formidable partnership at the back.
Even PSG manager Luis Enrique recently praised Arsenal’s defensive qualities, describing them as arguably the best side in the world without possession. Such comments have only increased confidence among Arsenal supporters ahead of the final.
However, Rooney is also aware of the enormous threat PSG possess. The French champions arrive in Budapest with some of the most explosive attacking players in world football, including Ousmane Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Both players have been outstanding throughout the tournament and have helped PSG reach consecutive Champions League finals.
Still, Rooney reportedly believes Arsenal’s collective mentality could make the difference. The Gunners recently ended their 22-year wait for a Premier League title, a triumph many believe has removed the psychological pressure that affected them in previous seasons.
That title victory has transformed the mood around the club. Arsenal now travel to Budapest not as nervous outsiders, but as genuine European heavyweights playing with confidence and belief. Rooney is believed to admire the resilience Arteta has built into the squad, especially after several near misses in recent years.
The former striker also reportedly praised Arsenal’s tactical identity. Under Arteta, Arsenal have developed into a side capable of dominating possession while also remaining dangerous in transition. Their pressing structure, defensive organization, and attacking movement have earned praise across Europe this season.
Rooney’s prediction will undoubtedly excite Arsenal fans, many of whom see this final as the beginning of a new era for the club. Winning the Champions League would cement Arteta’s place among Europe’s elite managers and potentially establish Arsenal as the dominant force in European football for years to come.
For PSG, meanwhile, the match represents another opportunity to build a lasting European dynasty after finally winning their first Champions League title in 2025. Luis Enrique’s side are determined to defend their crown, and their attacking firepower means they remain incredibly dangerous opponents.
But Rooney’s backing reflects a growing feeling across football that Arsenal’s moment may finally have arrived.
From the brilliance of Bukayo Saka on the wings to the leadership of Rice in midfield and the defensive solidity at the back, Arsenal appear to possess all the ingredients needed to win the biggest prize in club football.
Now, with the eyes of the football world fixed on Budapest, Arteta’s men have the chance to complete a remarkable journey and make history forever.