Former England international Paul Merson has claimed Arsenal will not win the UEFA Champions League this season, arguing his former club failed to sign a player with an "X factor" during the summer transfer window. According to the Daily Post, the Gunners were heavily linked with Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior and Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez but did not complete either deal. Merson made the comments as Arsenal prepared for their European campaign.

Former winger Joe Cole believes no Premier League side, including champions Arsenal, will win the Champions League this season, according to Daily Post. Many analysts expect Mikel Arteta’s squad to improve after reaching last season’s final, with Arsenal entering the campaign as reigning Premier League champions for the first time since 2004; the excerpt does not name Cole’s chosen winner.

Former Liverpool midfielder Steve McManaman has named two favourites to win this season’s UEFA Champions League while leaving Arsenal out of his picks, according to the Daily Post. The report notes Arsenal continued their perfect start with a 1-0 away win over Napoli on Wednesday, with Martin Odegaard scoring the decisive goal in the 75th minute in Naples. The specific two teams McManaman selected are not identified in the provided excerpt.

Paris Saint-Germain forward Ferran Torres has named the three teams he expects to challenge his side for the Champions League trophy this season, according to the Daily Post. Torres identified Barcelona, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich as the main contenders. PSG are the current holders of the trophy, having defeated Arsenal in this year's final to win the competition for a second consecutive season.

Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, Liverpool and Arsenal all began their Champions League campaigns with victories, according to Channels TV. PSG recorded a heavy win over Slovan, while Barcelona scored five goals against Feyenoord in their opening match. Arsenal secured an impressive 1-0 away win at Napoli, and Liverpool also claimed an opening-round victory, as Europe's leading clubs kicked off the new season of the competition.

Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has ruled Chelsea out of the Premier League title race this season, saying it is too soon for Xabi Alonso's side to be considered genuine challengers. According to the Daily Post, Petit instead backed Arsenal to win back-to-back league titles. His remarks come as the new Premier League season begins, with several clubs expected to compete near the top of the table.