In an unexpected yet glowing endorsement, newly appointed Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has thrown his weight behind Arsenal to win this season’s UEFA Champions League.
Speaking at his first press conference as Barça manager at Camp Nou on Monday, Flick surprised many when asked which team he believes is best positioned to become European champions — confidently naming Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal as his top pick.
“I think Arsenal will win the Champions League this year,” Flick declared.
“They’re playing an outstanding style of football — it’s very organised, energetic, and their defensive structure is among the strongest in Europe.
In my eyes, they are the favourites.”
Flick, who famously guided Bayern Munich to a historic sextuple in 2020, didn’t hold back in praising Arteta’s work at the North London club.
He highlighted the Spaniard’s ability to mould a competitive and mature squad capable of challenging at the highest level, both in domestic competitions and in Europe.
“What Mikel has accomplished over the past couple of seasons is remarkable,” Flick continued.
“He’s put together a youthful team that still has valuable experience in the right positions.
They also have a strong mindset, something that’s essential for success on big European nights.”
One of the factors Flick believes sets Arsenal apart is their tactical adaptability.
He noted that the Gunners are capable of altering their style depending on the opposition and the flow of the match — an essential trait in a tournament like the Champions League.
“They know how to manage possession, but they’re also comfortable sitting deep when needed,” he observed.
“Their ability to switch from defence to attack in moments is top-class.
That kind of flexibility is what helps you survive against clubs like PSG, Real Madrid, or Bayern — teams that will put you under pressure. Arsenal can endure those periods and still come out on top.”
Flick also made special mention of Arsenal’s recent defensive improvements, saying the team has grown significantly in terms of managing difficult in-game situations and staying composed under pressure.
“In these knockout games, it’s not just about who creates the most chances or keeps the ball longer — it’s about staying focused, defending resolutely, and being clinical.
Arsenal are showing that maturity now.”
When asked whether he’d like to meet Arsenal in a potential final, Flick smiled and replied, “If we play them, it means we’re in the final too — and that would be a fantastic match.
But at this point, I see Arsenal leading the pack.”
With the Gunners preparing for their upcoming semi-final clash with Paris Saint-Germain, Flick’s bold prediction has added a fascinating twist to this season’s Champions League narrative as Arsenal seek their first-ever European title.
