Something interesting has happened in the build-up to this final.
Arsenal have done almost everything right. They regrouped when it mattered most, showed tremendous character, put together an impressive winning streak in the Premier League and secured their first English title in 22 years. Yet despite all that momentum, confidence in them seems to be fading rather than growing.
The betting market tells its own story. When the final was first priced up, the two teams were viewed as relatively close. As the days have passed, however, more and more money has flowed towards PSG. It is not a dramatic swing, but it is a noticeable one — and perhaps a reflection of what many observers are seeing.
It is not simply because PSG are the reigning Champions League winners, although experience on this stage matters. Luis Enrique's side wrapped up the Ligue 1 title earlier, enjoyed a much lighter schedule and arrived at this final with significantly fresher legs. Ligue 1 even postponed two of their domestic fixtures to aid their European preparations, giving the Parisians valuable time to recover and focus entirely on Budapest.
Another factor is flexibility.
One of PSG's greatest strengths this season has been their ability to adapt to different situations without losing their identity. The semi-final against Bayern Munich was the perfect example. In the first leg, they played fearless attacking football, creating chances almost at will and looking capable of scoring every time they moved forward. A week later, they produced something entirely different — disciplined, pragmatic and defensively solid. They controlled the tie, neutralised a dangerous opponent and deservedly booked their place in the final.
Arsenal's route to Budapest has been impressive, but arguably less demanding. Mikel Arteta's side overcame Bayer Leverkusen, Sporting and Atlético Madrid, often by the narrowest of margins. That does not mean they do not deserve to be here — they absolutely do. But they have not yet faced a team with PSG's combination of attacking quality, tactical variety and big-game experience.
Goals have not come easily for Arsenal either. Outside of a handful of standout performances, they have generally approached matches cautiously, prioritising defensive security over attacking freedom. That approach has served them well throughout the season, but it could become a problem against a PSG side capable of punishing even the smallest mistakes.
Arsenal certainly have the quality to make this a close final. But when comparing the two squads, their paths to the final, their physical condition and their tactical versatility, PSG appear to hold the stronger hand.
Prediction: PSG to win the Champions League final.