Jermaine Pennant believes Liverpool possesses a distinct psychological advantage over Arsenal in European competition despite the Gunners’ current domestic dominance. The former winger argues that the Reds’ historic pedigree, highlighted by their six European titles, makes them favorites to triumph in a potential two-legged knockout tie.
Liverpool moved closer to a guaranteed top-eight finish in the league phase following a decisive 3-0 victory against Marseille on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Arsenal currently leads the standings as one of only two clubs to officially secure a Round of 16 berth.
During an appearance on talkSPORT, Pennant suggested that Liverpool’s specialized knowledge of the Champions League often transcends their Premier League form. He pointed to the intimidation factor of Anfield on European nights as a hurdle he believes Mikel Arteta’s squad might struggle to overcome. The pundit also referenced the 2024/25 campaign, noting that Paris Saint-Germain managed to secure their first-ever trophy despite finishing 15th in the league phase, to illustrate that early-season momentum does not always determine the eventual champion.
Pennant emphasized that the technical and mental requirements of the knockout stages favor the Merseyside club’s traditional strengths. He maintains that while Arsenal performs brilliantly in the current league format, the high-pressure environment of a continental showdown plays directly into Liverpool’s hands. As both English giants prepare for the elimination rounds, Pennant’s assessment adds fuel to the debate regarding whether history or current form carries more weight on the grandest stage in club football.
Jermaine Pennant explained his reasoning during the broadcast: “They have the right background and the right knowledge, and I believe they would perform much better in the Champions League this season compared to the Premier League. Yeah, I really mean it, because Liverpool have won the Champions League six times. They have the background; they understand what it takes to reach that point and come out on top. I believe Liverpool would win against Arsenal in a two-legged match.
“I would say Liverpool have a better chance of winning it than Arsenal, because they’ve won it six times. They have the background and skills to make it across the line when it really matters. Over a two-legged game, Liverpool go to the Emirates, stink it out, come back to Anfield. If they can get Anfield rocking on a Champions League night, it’s a horrible place to go. There’s something special about Arsenal when they play at Anfield. Last season, Liverpool won every league game except one, then they played PSG, who were 15th, and went on to win the title.”
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