Joe Cole Explains the Big Advantage Arsenal Have Over PSG Ahead of Champions League Clash

Former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole believes Arsenal has a big advantage ahead of they’re Champions League semi-final match against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and it could help the Gunners reach their first final since 2006.

Speaking on TNT Sports after Arsenal’s impressive 5-1 win over Real Madrid on aggregate, Cole praised the Arsenal squad and pointed out one major factor that could decide the score; rest and preparation time.

Arsenal will play the first leg on April 29 at the Emirates Stadium and the second leg on May 7 in Paris. Thanks to a change in their schedule, the Gunners will have more time to get ready. Their Premier League game against Crystal Palace has been moved to April 23, meaning they’ll have six or seven days to prepare for PSG — and only two matches to play beforehand.

PSG, on the other hand, won’t have it so easy. They have to play three games in just six days, including a tough Ligue 1 match against Nice on April 25 — only four days before they face Arsenal. Cole pointed out that this could leave the French side tired and vulnerable.

“This quick turnaround will stretch PSG to their limits,” Cole said. “Arsenal can take advantage of being fresher.”

While PSG have attacking threats like Ousmane Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and recently beat Aston Villa 5-4 on aggregate, Cole believes Arsenal’s strong position could be key. The Gunners are no longer chasing the Premier League title, so they can fully focus on Europe.

“The club is in a fantastic place,” Cole added, praising Arteta’s work.

Fans are also feeling confident. One Arsenal supporter on X (formerly Twitter) posted: “Rest advantage + Saka’s form = PSG in trouble!”

Arsenal already beat PSG earlier this season in the group stage, winning 2-0 thanks to goals from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka. Although Cole admitted that the semi-final will be a much tougher test, he believes Arsenal are ready.

With William Saliba leading the defence and Arteta’s smart tactics, Arsenal could be favourites to go all the way to the final in June.