Henry: Arsenal Can Win the Champions League
Arsenal legend Thierry Henry believes the club’s hopes of winning the Premier League title are nearly over due to growing injuries in the squad, but the Champions League is now within reach.
Arsenal secured a crushing 7-1 victory over PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16, virtually guaranteeing their qualification for the quarter-finals. They are set to face the winner of the tie between reigning champions Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid next month.
Jurrien Timber, who opened Arsenal’s goal fest before the trip to the Netherlands, described it as an opportunity for Mikel Arteta’s side to get back on track after a disappointing Premier League run.
Arsenal’s dominant performance at the Philips Stadion certainly delivered on that promise, as the London side made their ambitions clear.
Henry, Arsenal’s all-time top scorer and a key figure in their 2006 Champions League final loss to Barcelona, believes that with the Premier League title race nearly out of reach, the team can now fully focus on Europe.
Speaking on CBS’s Sports Golazo show, Henry said: “Yes, they can (win the Champions League). I believe it, that’s why I say it will happen. I’m just talking now, but they have shown us they are capable of doing it—winning big against a good team, with injured players returning.”
He added: “I don’t want to disrespect PSV. I thought this game would be tough, especially away from home, but Arsenal made it look easy. I think they played a fantastic match.”
Arsenal might face a tough quarter-final test, as they will play the first leg at home. However, Henry believes their dominant performance against PSV will provide a major confidence boost.
The Frenchman said: “We all know the Premier League is over unless a miracle happens. What I’m saying is that this match could help Arsenal gain confidence for the next round, whether it’s against Real Madrid or Atlético Madrid. Sometimes, the draw can work in your favor, or it can go against you. But if you want to win the competition, you have to beat whoever comes your way.”
