'Arsenal might throw up a shock' - Former WSL star backs 'underdog' Gunners to prevail in upcoming Women's Champions League final against Barcelona

Ruesha Littlejohn has shared her thoughts on the upcoming Women's Champions League final between Arsenal and Barcelona. The former Aston Villa midfielder believes that while the Gunners have a chance, especially as underdogs, Barcelona's experience and dominance make them the favourites. She emphasised Arsenal's vulnerability in defence and suggested they might need to adjust their tactics to frustrate Barcelona.

Arsenal's journey to the final has been a story of resilience, bouncing back from setbacks and using the Champions League as a springboard, particularly given their inconsistent domestic form. Barcelona, on the other hand, are aiming for their third consecutive Champions League title, showcasing their sustained success and high-pressure performance. Littlejohn's analysis highlights the contrasting positions of the two teams, with Arsenal as the underdog seeking a historic win and Barcelona as the established champion looking to cement their legacy.

Speaking on talkSPORT, Littlejohn said: "Barcelona, they've been here before. It's just another final to them right now and I just feel like they're going to want to wipe the floor with Arsenal and just show 'We are the champions of Europe still and you have all got so much work to do to catch us.'

"Arsenal have nothing to lose. We're the underdogs. We've spoken about it before. Is it the year of the underdogs? So, they're going to go in, but at the same time, they're going to need to deal with the occasion, the nerves, and then just getting up to speed and play against the likes of Barcelona.

"I think maybe because they are the underdog, because they are under pressure, because it is bloody Barcelona that maybe Arsenal might throw up a bit of a shock.

"Arsenal are leaking goals. I feel like if the squad were all on the same page going, 'Yeah, Barcelona, we have to bow down and accept that they are absolutely great and they're ahead of us right now because they've been consecutively performing in high level tournaments for years now.' Do we go, 'Okay, we have to respect that and let's kind of just change our change our identity a we bit for this game to try and frustrate them and stay in the game.'"

Arsenal will continue their preparations for the Champions League final, focusing on addressing their defensive vulnerabilities and formulating a game plan to disrupt Barcelona's rhythm. Barcelona, equally, will be looking to prepare for the final as they look to continue their dominance of European football. The final takes place in Lisbon and promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of the best teams in women's football.