Alan Shearer has picked his current favourites to win the Champions League — and it’s not Arsenal, despite their strong position.
Arsenal hold a commanding 3-0 advantage over Real Madrid after an impressive first-leg performance at the Emirates, where Declan Rice scored twice from free-kicks and Mikel Merino added a third. The second leg will be played at the Bernabeu.
Madrid were considered the frontrunners to retain their Champions League title just a week ago, but the Gunners’ dominant display shifted expectations. Historically, Real Madrid have never managed to overturn a three-goal deficit in European competition and now face an Arsenal side known for its defensive solidity — they’ve conceded just 27 goals in 32 league matches this season.
Elsewhere in the competition, Barcelona are in control with a 4-0 lead over Borussia Dortmund, while PSG take a 3-1 advantage into their second leg against Aston Villa. Inter Milan have a narrow 2-1 edge over Bayern Munich in what is shaping up to be the most tightly contested tie of the quarter-finals.
Discussing the upcoming second-leg matches on The Rest is Football podcast, Shearer said: “Barcelona are my favourites. They were excellent against Dortmund and still look like the team to beat.”
He also commented on PSG’s turnaround this season: “They were underwhelming in the group stages — I remember how Arsenal completely outclassed them. But the way PSG are playing now is remarkable.”
Gary Lineker agrees that Barcelona and PSG stand out as the top contenders: “Either of them could be favourites. PSG have been electric, especially in their matches against Liverpool.”
Micah Richards offered a more balanced view: “It’s 50:50 between PSG and Barcelona. Barca’s attack is incredible, but their high defensive line could be exposed against stronger opponents. Dortmund had chances — better teams might punish them.”
Despite Arsenal’s commanding lead, both their fans and manager Mikel Arteta remain cautious. Real Madrid, led by Carlo Ancelotti, have a reputation for producing dramatic comebacks in this competition, having won two of the last three Champions Leagues.
Lineker concluded: “If it were any other team, you’d say the tie is over. But with Madrid, anything can happen. Still, Arsenal are in a great position to reach the semi-finals.”
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