As the UEFA Champions League semi-finals approach, four of Europe’s top clubs—Arsenal, PSG, Barcelona, and Inter—prepare to battle for a coveted spot in the final. With key players returning from injury, tactical dilemmas, and mixed recent form, the matchups promise high drama and fine margins.
Arsenal Aim for Silverware Redemption Against PSG
Arsenal return to European action at the Emirates Stadium following a weekend off, their Premier League title hopes dashed by Liverpool’s triumph. That disappointment may now fuel their drive in the Champions League, their last realistic path to a trophy this season. Unbeaten in 12 matches, Arsenal’s recent form has been steady, if unspectacular, with six wins and six draws, including two at home against Brentford and Crystal Palace.
Manager Mikel Arteta faces midfield concerns. Thomas Partey is suspended and Jorginho is injured, leaving Spain international Mikel Merino to anchor the midfield if he passes a late fitness test. Ben White is also back in training, while Myles Lewis-Skelly is expected to fill in at left-back again. Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Gabriel Magalhães remain sidelined. Riccardo Calafiori, however, may return to the squad.
PSG manager Luis Enrique has a full squad at his disposal but must decide which attackers to start. Désiré Doué and Bradley Barcola are competing to join Ousmane Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia in the front line. The midfield trio of João Neves, Vitinha, and Fabián Ruiz has been consistently strong, dictating the pace and pressing opponents into submission.
Despite a 3-1 Ligue 1 loss to Nice last week—PSG’s first domestic defeat this season—the Parisians enter with confidence after eliminating both Liverpool and Aston Villa in earlier rounds. However, their inconsistency is notable: five defeats in this year’s competition is more than the other semi-finalists combined. Arsenal also hold a psychological edge, having beaten PSG 2-0 at the Emirates during the group stage.
Prediction: Arsenal to progress
Barcelona Eye Treble as Inter Seek Redemption
Fresh off a dramatic Copa del Rey final victory over Real Madrid, Barcelona continue their hunt for a historic treble under Hansi Flick. The 3-2 win, which went to extra time and featured three red cards after the final whistle, showcased their grit and ambition. Now four points clear in La Liga and with just one defeat in 2025, Barcelona are peaking at the right time.
The return of Marc-Andre ter Stegen, included in the squad for the cup final for the first time since September, gives Flick another option in goal, though Wojciech Szczesny—who came out of retirement in October—may retain his starting spot. Injuries to Marc Bernal, Marc Casado, and Alejandro Balde remain concerns, while Robert Lewandowski’s absence will be keenly felt. Ferran Torres is expected to lead the line, with support from Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, and Raphinha. Pedri and Frenkie de Jong, both subbed off in the cup final, are expected to feature.
Inter, on the other hand, arrive at Camp Nou on a poor run of form. Sunday’s 1-0 home defeat to Roma extended their winless streak to four matches and knocked them off the top of Serie A. Their treble hopes were already dashed by a Coppa Italia loss to Milan earlier this month. Defender Benjamin Pavard’s ankle injury further complicates Simone Inzaghi’s selection, with Yann Bisseck or Stefan de Vrij likely to fill in.
There is some good news: Marcus Thuram may return to the squad after a muscle injury, though he is unlikely to start. Mehdi Taremi could partner Lautaro Martínez up front. Carlos Augusto is expected to continue as left wing-back in the Champions League, with Denzel Dumfries returning on the right.
While Inter possess quality and resilience, their recent struggles and Barcelona’s surging momentum may tilt this tie in the Spaniards’ favour.
Prediction: Barcelona to Progress
Both semi-finals showcase contrasting dynamics—Arsenal and PSG with their tactical dilemmas and recent domestic setbacks, and Barcelona and Inter reflecting momentum versus desperation. With key players returning and silverware within reach, expect intensity, strategy, and fine margins to decide who advances to the final.