Arsenal Told They are Missing One Thing in Order to Win Champions League

According to a report by Football Transfer on Tuesday October 20, 2026, Arsenal have been warned that their attacking options might not be enough to deliver Champions League glory, with former midfielder Paul Merson questioning whether their forwards possess the quality required against Europe’s strongest opponents.

Mikel Arteta’s side continue pursuing their first Champions League trophy ahead of Wednesday’s clash against Bayern Munich. Arsenal suffered heartbreak last season, losing the final against Paris Saint-Germain on penalties after coming agonisingly close to European glory.

Merson, now a Sky Sports pundit, believes Arsenal lack the special attacking quality necessary to overcome Europe’s biggest clubs. He doubts whether Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyokeres can consistently deliver decisive performances during crucial Champions League matches.

“I like Kai Havertz. He’s a good footballer,” Merson explained in his latest Sky Sports column, before questioning whether the German forward genuinely worries elite defenders when they prepare to face Arsenal in important European encounters.

Merson added: “X factor is what wins a Champions League and I don’t see that at Arsenal. I don’t see Havertz or Viktor Gyokeres as the difference-maker.” He believes stronger opposition demands greater attacking quality.

Arsenal attempted to strengthen their forward line during the summer following their Premier League title success. They pursued Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez, Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior and Juventus attacker Kenan Yildiz, but failed to complete any transfers.

The north London club also lost Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli, who joined Besiktas and Al-Hilal respectively. Arsenal subsequently signed Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge for €40 million (£35m), strengthening Arteta’s attacking options.

Despite Merson’s concerns, Arsenal have started the campaign impressively, winning ten of eleven matches across four competitions. Bayern Munich recently thrashed RB Leipzig 6-1 but previously drew 3-3 against Norwegian opponents Viking.

Arsenal must now demonstrate that their excellent start can translate into European success, particularly against Bayern Munich, whose experience and attacking strength will provide a demanding examination of Arteta’s Champions League ambitions.

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