The Champions League quarterfinals are set with Arsenal, Inter, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain as the remaining teams. While PSG`s journey from a lower league phase position is notable, the other top teams from that phase have advanced. One of PSG or Arsenal, both seeking their first Champions League title, will reach the final. Meanwhile, Barcelona and Inter, aiming to regain past glory, will compete against each other.
With these teams left, it`s time to rank the contenders for the Champions League title. Can Arsenal match the attacking strength of Barcelona or PSG? Is this Inter team stronger than the one that played Manchester City in the previous final?
4. Inter
Arsenal and Inter are very close in ranking, almost tied. Lautaro Martinez has starred in this Champions League, scoring eight goals as Inter has progressed. Inter boasts a competition-leading eight clean sheets, with Simone Inzaghi`s squad showing defensive strength and offensive capability. However, it`s questionable if Inter can overcome a team with relentless attacking power beyond Martinez and Marcus Thuram.
Defeating Bayern Munich is impressive, but Bayern is still rebuilding to reach Europe`s top level, which is where Inter is now. Facing Barcelona will be a test for Inter to prove their ability against top teams.
3. Arsenal
Neutralizing Real Madrid`s attack is a significant achievement, especially with a third-choice center back and an 18-year-old left back. Arsenal`s defense effectively limited Real Madrid to low-quality shots, even after a missed penalty from Bukayo Saka.
If Saka and Martin Odegaard stay fit, Arsenal can win the Champions League. However, against more balanced teams than Real Madrid, Mikel Arteta needs to ensure Arsenal isn`t overwhelmed.
2. PSG
PSG has been the most dangerous team in world football recently. Luis Enrique`s team is incredibly versatile. The dynamic play of Ousman Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is exceptional, and PSG`s attacks are hard to stop. Even their fullbacks contribute offensively, while the midfield remains balanced.
PSG`s main weakness is the lack of a traditional number nine. Their attacking style means they can win big or be involved in high-scoring games. Few teams can match their attacking output over two legs, making a matchup against Arsenal potentially a test of endurance.
1. Barcelona
Ranking Barcelona and PSG is very close, almost equal, but Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha give Barcelona a slight edge. Like PSG, Barcelona prioritizes attack and has talented young players like Lamine Yamal. A Champions League final between them would be exciting, but they both have challenging matches ahead.
A striker like Martinez could exploit Barcelona`s offside trap, posing problems for their defense. Inter`s defense will be crucial. Stopping Barcelona`s attack requires a team effort because even if their main attackers are contained, players like Pedri can contribute from midfield. Barcelona seems to have solutions for any challenge, making them slightly ahead of PSG.
