Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Joao Neves has shared his thoughts ahead of their second leg UEFA Champions League semifinal match against Arsenal. He spoke highly of three Arsenal players who he thinks have been the toughest opponents this season.
Neves named Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard, along with midfield teammates Declan Rice and Thomas Partey, as standout performers. According to him, they have been among the best players he’s faced in the competition.
“Arsenal, for sure. One of the best teams. The midfield – Odegaard, Declan Rice, Partey. Amazing players,” Neves told The Athletic.
Arsenal had earlier beaten PSG 2-0 in the group stage. But in the semifinal first leg, PSG got their revenge with a 1-0 win at the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal’s midfield trio has been strong throughout the tournament. Declan Rice was key in the quarterfinals, scoring from free kicks to help Arsenal knock out Real Madrid. Rice has six goal contributions in 11 Champions League games, Odegaard has four in nine matches, and Partey’s absence in the first leg was a big blow for the Gunners.
As both teams prepare for the second leg, all eyes will be on Arsenal’s midfield to see if they can help their team reach the final.
