Former Italy World Cup winner Andrea Barzagli believes that Arsenal are the underdogs in this season’s Champions League and suggests that Lazio have a chance against Bayern Munich in the Round of 16.
As the Champions League Round of 16 commences, with Manchester City facing Copenhagen and RB Leipzig hosting Real Madrid, the giants of La Liga and the Premier League are seen as the top contenders for the trophy come May, according to Barzagli, who won the World Cup with Italy in 2006.
He noted “On paper, they are the primary favorites,” Barzagli told Gazzetta. “Real Madrid has a history of winning and an impressive track record. City are the reigning champions, but winning the Champions League consecutively is never straightforward. It’s noteworthy that only Real Madrid has achieved this feat in recent years.”
Barzagli emphasized the importance of details in the Champions League, noting that the strongest teams don’t always advance, and surprises are common.
Regarding potential underdogs for the 2023-24 season, Barzagli highlighted Arsenal as a team to watch. “They have shown promise over the last couple of seasons,” he remarked. “The outcome of the Round of 16 will depend heavily on the draw and the timing of facing certain opponents.”
Arsenal is set to face Porto in the Round of 16, with the first leg scheduled for February 21 in Portugal. Meanwhile, Lazio will take on Bayern Munich on Wednesday. Despite Bayern’s recent loss to Bayer Leverkusen, they remain favorites to progress to the quarter-finals.
“Bayern had a strong showing in the group stage, but recent events, such as their loss to Bayer Leverkusen, may have affected their confidence,” Barzagli observed. “Lazio could capitalize on this situation.”
He cautioned against underestimating clubs like Lazio, noting their ability to bounce back quickly. While Bayern may be the stronger team overall, Barzagli believes Lazio still has a chance to cause an upset. Lazio secured a 3-1 victory over struggling Cagliari on Saturday and currently holds the eighth position in the Serie A table.
