Michael Dawson has admitted that he was baffled by what he heard many say about Arsenal ahead of their Champions League tie with Bayern Munich on Tuesday.
The tie is finely poised heading into the second-leg next week. A late goal from Leandro Trossard saw Arsenal earn a 2-2 draw against Thomas Tuchel’s side at the Emirates.
Mikel Arteta‘s men were probably favourites for the tie, with Rio Ferdinand amongst those tipping Arsenal to go through against Bayern.
The Gunners are currently leading the way in the Premier League. And Bayern have had a torrid season domestically, with the Bavarian giants set to miss out on the title for the first time since 2012.
Michael Dawson says he disagrees with what everyone was saying about Arsenal
Of course, it appears to be a strong side of the Champions League draw, with Arsenal or Bayern set to face either Manchester City or Real Madrid for a place in the final.
Understandably, many believe that the winner of the whole thing is coming from that side of the draw. But speaking on Sky Sports, Michael Dawson took issue with those who were confident in a Premier League side winning the competition.
“I think next week is going to be tough for Arsenal, I really, really do. I never thought it was easy. People say City and Arsenal are the only teams who can win the Champions League. I never, ever thought that,” he said.
“Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. Real Madrid, 14 time winners, I don’t know how anyone could write them off, and even write them off going to Man City next week. As much as I think Man City will win, never write these teams off.
“These big football clubs, as bad as they are domestically, and 16 points behind Leverkusen, they’re way below par, unacceptable really in the Bundesliga. But when it comes to this competition and the latter stages, they know how to turn the performances on.”
Why confidence in Mikel Arteta’s men is not misplaced
In fairness, it does seem as though many of those tipping Arsenal have suggested that they have nothing to fear in the competition.
Ultimately, they have taken four points from Manchester City this season. And City are the current champions of Europe.
Bayern are not the same side they have been in the past. And Real Madrid, for all their quality, have required some unbelievable comebacks on their way to glory before.
So Arsenal should not fear any individual game. Perhaps their Premier League title push could have an impact. But if they get through in Germany next week, it will be a massive boost to their confidence ahead of the semi-final.
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