Thierry Henry issues message of hope to Arsenal ahead of PSG second-leg
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Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has issued a stark warning to the Gunners ahead of their Champions League semi-final second leg against Paris Saint-Germain on May 7, following a 1-0 defeat at the Emirates.
Speaking on CBS Sports, Thierry Henry labeled PSG “far superior” in the first leg, urging Mikel Arteta’s side to make significant tactical changes to overturn the deficit at Parc des Princes.
Ousmane Dembélé’s fourth-minute strike exposed Arsenal’s early vulnerabilities, with Henry pinpointing Bukayo Saka’s pressing error and the absence of Thomas Partey as critical. “So many mistakes,” he said, noting PSG’s dominance in midfield, where Arsenal struggled without Partey’s structure.
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Henry highlighted how Dembélé’s false-nine role disrupted the Gunners, though he observed PSG weakened after Dembélé’s substitution, easing pressure on Arsenal’s defense.
Despite the critique, Thierry Henry remains optimistic, insisting “anything can happen” in the second leg. He cited PSG’s 4-1 comeback against Barcelona in last season’s quarter-finals as inspiration, suggesting Arsenal could replicate such a feat.
“You’re still in the tie,” he told CBS, emphasizing the one-goal deficit is surmountable. Thierry Henry also noted PSG’s recent home losses to Nice, Aston Villa, and Liverpool, offering hope for an upset.
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Arteta echoed Henry’s belief, calling the tie “half-time” and confirming Partey’s return will bolster midfield, allowing Declan Rice to push forward and support a subdued Martin Ødegaard.
However, PSG’s Luis Enrique downplayed concerns over Dembélé’s “niggle,” hinting the 32-goal forward will likely feature. Arsenal’s injury list—Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Magalhães, and Kai Havertz—remains a concern, with Havertz’s return uncertain.
As Arsenal face Bournemouth today, focus shifts to Paris, inspired by the women’s team’s recent Lyon comeback. Henry’s words resonate: Arsenal must channel their 2-0 group-stage win over PSG and deliver a historic performance to reach their first Champions League final since 2006.
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