Alan Shearer on what could stop Arsenal in the Champions League

January 21, 2026 Oliver Obel

Alan Shearer believes Arsenal have reached a point where they can realistically chase success at home and abroad this season. Still, he thinks there is one team better equipped than the rest to stop them in the Champions League.

Speaking on Amazon Prime, the former England striker said Mikel Arteta’s side now look settled at the highest level. The squad depth, the confidence, and the way they manage games all stand out. But when it comes to picking a winner, Shearer remains cautious.

For him, Paris Saint-Germain are the benchmark. He pointed to their recent European pedigree and the quality throughout the squad, saying he would “edge it with PSG,” even while stressing that Arsenal are close behind.

Asked who PSG might face in the final on May 30, Shearer’s answer reflected how far Arsenal have come. “Probably Arsenal,” he said.

Inter result adds weight to Arsenal’s progress

Arsenal’s win away at Inter Milan did little to quiet the growing belief around the club. The 3-1 victory kept them unbeaten in the competition and showed a level of control that has sometimes been missing in past European campaigns.

Gabriel Jesus scored twice, with Viktor Gyökeres also finding the net, as Arsenal handled a difficult atmosphere against one of Italy’s strongest sides. It was the type of performance that suggested maturity rather than momentum alone.

The result left Arsenal top of the Champions League league phase, six points clear of Real Madrid with one game remaining. That gap guarantees home advantage in the second leg of the knockout round a small but significant edge. Amazon Prime’s coverage described the display as further evidence that Arsenal now belong among Europe’s elite.

Shearer also highlighted how little the team’s level drops when changes are made. Rotation, he said, has not disrupted their rhythm, and that ability to win away from home could prove decisive later in the tournament.

League form reinforces title belief

That same assurance is carrying over domestically. After 22 Premier League matches, Arsenal sit six points ahead of Manchester City, setting the pace at the top of the table.

Shearer believes that margin which he described as seven points at the time of speaking should be enough. He referenced rivals continuing to drop points, players returning from injury, and a defence that rarely gives opponents clear chances.

Arsenal, he said, are no longer relying on fine margins. “I think they’ll go ahead and they’ll do it,” Shearer added.

Sources: Amazon Prime