Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes has described Arsenal as “among the top favourites” to win the UEFA Champions League after the two clubs were drawn together in the last 16.
The Bundesliga side will face the Premier League leaders over two legs, with both teams aiming to progress to the quarter-finals of Europe’s premier club competition.
Rolfes welcomed the draw and highlighted the competitive level of the tie, pointing to Arsenal’s squad strength and development under head coach Mikel Arteta.
Rolfes Praises Arsenal’s Development
Speaking after the draw, Rolfes said he was pleased with the pairing from a sporting perspective, noting the opportunity to compete against elite opposition.
He described Arsenal as possessing “an extremely good squad” with both physical and technical qualities, adding that the team’s pace and organisation stand out.
Rolfes also pointed to the club’s steady progress in recent seasons, saying Arsenal have refined their style of play year on year. He argued that this consistency explains why they are considered among the leading contenders not only for the Champions League but also for the Premier League title.
Despite the praise, Rolfes made clear that Leverkusen are relishing the challenge of facing high-level opponents on the European stage, which he described as the essence of competing in the tournament.
Arteta Focused on Preparation
Arteta responded by expressing enthusiasm about reaching the knockout phase and underlined the importance of preparation.
He said Arsenal had “earned the right” to be in a strong position following their group-stage campaign and stressed the need to analyse Leverkusen carefully to find ways to progress.
Arteta also referenced Arsenal’s broader ambitions this season, noting the team is competing on multiple fronts. However, he emphasised a focus on immediate priorities and maintaining the trajectory established so far.
The Spanish manager added that his main concern remains ensuring the team continues performing at its current level, while seeking incremental improvement.
Arsenal are chasing their first Champions League title in the club’s history. Their best performance in the competition came in the 2005–06 season, when they reached the final before losing to Barcelona in Paris.
Havertz Set for BayArena Return
The tie will carry added significance due to personnel links between the two clubs.
Arsenal midfielder Kai Havertz is set to return to the BayArena, where he began his professional career. Havertz played for Leverkusen between 2016 and 2020 before transferring to Chelsea.
Rolfes confirmed he has been in contact with Havertz ahead of the reunion and suggested the player would require numerous tickets for friends and family, given his local connections.
He also reflected on Havertz’s departure during the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that restrictions at the time limited the opportunity for a formal farewell. According to Rolfes, the transfer played a significant role in shaping Leverkusen’s subsequent development.
Loan Links Add Subplot
Another storyline surrounds defender Piero Hincapié, who Rolfes described as still officially a Leverkusen player while currently on loan at Arsenal. He indicated that the situation is expected to be resolved permanently in due course.
Rolfes said the fixture would also be special for Hincapié, given his association with Leverkusen.
Such connections add an emotional layer to what is already one of the standout ties of the round of 16.
European Ambitions on Both Sides
Both clubs enter the knockout stage with domestic momentum. Arsenal sit at the top of the Premier League table, while Leverkusen remain among the leading sides in Germany.
The Champions League represents a central objective for both teams. For Arsenal, lifting the trophy would mark a historic achievement. For Leverkusen, progress beyond the round of 16 would reinforce their growing status among Europe’s competitive clubs.
The draw ensures a high-level encounter between two teams known for structured build-up play, tactical discipline and attacking depth.
With the first leg approaching, attention now turns to detailed preparation and squad management. Arteta has signalled that Arsenal’s focus remains firmly on performance standards, while Leverkusen view the tie as an opportunity to test themselves against one of Europe’s most consistent sides this season.
The outcome will hinge on execution across both legs, but pre-tie remarks from Rolfes underline the respect Arsenal command within continental football.
As the knockout rounds begin, the meeting between Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen stands out as one of the most balanced and technically intriguing fixtures of the stage.