Odegaard assures Arsenal have “full belief” they can win the Champions League

Arsenal Captain Odegaard States Full Belief in Victory Against Paris Saint-Germain Martin Odegaard told reporters on Friday that Arsenal approach Saturday’s Champions League final in Munich with full belief they can defeat holders Paris Saint-Germain and secure the club’s first European Cup. Speaking at the team’s final pre-match media session, the captain emphasised that the squad intends to maintain its established approach rather than make adjustments for the occasion. Odegaard’s remarks form part of Arsenal’s consistent messaging ahead of the match. The Norwegian midfielder, who has led the side since 2022, framed the final as another opportunity to apply the same principles that have defined the team’s season. Odegaard Stresses Continuity of Approach Odegaard explained that the group has focused on preserving its identity when preparing for Paris Saint-Germain. He said the most important requirement is to remain true to the team’s established patterns rather than introduce changes because the occasion is a final. The captain noted that preparation has followed the same routine used for every other fixture this season. This stance reflects the value placed on familiarity within the squad. By repeating the same preparation methods, Arsenal aim to avoid the uncertainty that can accompany major alterations in high-stakes matches. Odegaard’s comments indicate the players view adherence to their standard game model as the clearest route to success. Arteta Highlights Respect for Process Manager Mikel Arteta offered similar observations in his own briefing. He stated that the players understand the demands of the final while also recognising the value of the work completed throughout the campaign. Arteta stressed respect for the opponent alongside respect for the consistency that has carried Arsenal to Munich. The alignment between captain and manager suggests a shared emphasis on internal standards. This approach allows the team to frame the final as the continuation of an established path rather than a break from it. Arsenal’s Route to the Final Arsenal reached the final after finishing top of their group and then eliminating Real Madrid in the semi-finals on aggregate. The club’s previous European final appearance came in 2006, when it lost to Barcelona. The current campaign therefore represents the first return to the Champions League showpiece since that match. The team finished second in the Premier League, three points behind Manchester City, and remained unbeaten through the Champions League knockout stages before the final. Odegaard, Bukayo Saka and William Saliba have featured among the key contributors during this run. Their involvement has supported the continuity that Odegaard and Arteta both referenced in their briefings. Paris Saint-Germain Defend Their Title Paris Saint-Germain enter the match as defending champions following their victory over Inter Milan in the previous season’s final. The French club therefore bring recent experience of winning the competition, adding a further layer to the contest in Munich. What Happens Next The two sides will meet on Saturday evening in Munich, with the outcome determining whether Arsenal claim their first Champions League title or whether Paris Saint-Germain retain the trophy. The match will test whether Arsenal’s stated commitment to maintaining its established patterns can overcome the holders.

By Dante Williams, Staff Writer