Former France defender Marcel Desailly has tipped Paris Saint-Germain to win the UEFA Champions League final against Arsenal.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with MrRaffle.com, Desailly highlighted PSG’s midfield dominance and tactical control as key reasons to back them in Saturday’s showpiece.
He did, however, admit that Arsenal have taken a big psychological step forward by winning the Premier League, with Mikel Arteta’s side now boasting a strong mentality.
Desailly turned out for Marseille, AC Milan and Chelsea across a storied career, winning the Champions League twice as well as the 1998 FIFA World Cup.
The 2026 Champions League final takes place on 30 May at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest, Hungary, with kick-off set for 18:00 local time (17:00 BST).
Desailly backs PSG in final
Defending champions PSG are a formidable outfit under tactician Luis Enrique and many pundits are giving Arsenal little chance against the Paris club – a sentiment Desailly shares.
“Paris. Paris Saint-Germain,” he said when asked to pick a favourite.
“When you look at their possession, their capability, their aura and the way they constantly win the battle of the midfield, it’s strong.”
Despite that conviction, the Frenchman added: “At the same time, look at the spirit and confidence that Arsenal have acquired by finally winning the Premier League title.
“It’s spot on for them.”
Domestic success gives Arsenal momentum
With the Gunners recently ending a 22-year wait for Premier League glory, Desailly believes they will come into Saturday’s final full of confidence – although it’s unlikely to be enough.
“It came down to the wire recently, so your adrenaline raises very high. If it’s too close to the Champions League competition, you don’t have time to let it drop,” the 57-year-old explained.
“They have the time now to really acknowledge their victory and bring that winning mentality back for the Champions League.
“That little bit of confidence changes things – suddenly, you are confident.
“That fear they had in past years is gone, and now everyone is free to express themselves under that red and white shirt.
“So, it’s football, yes, but automatically when you ask me the question, I will tell you Paris for sure. It’s an obvious thing.”
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Nicole Powell