FOOTBALL
Posted on February 28, 2026 6:30 pm | Updated on February 28, 2026 5:26 pm
Football fans are buzzing with excitement as the Champions League knockout stages draw near. Bayer Leverkusen sporting director, Simon Rolfes, has made a bold statement about Arsenal. He called them “among the top favourites” to win the tournament.
The Champions League Draw Unveiled
The Champions League last-16 draw happened recently, and it gave Arsenal a tough but exciting matchup against Bayer Leverkusen. Arsenal, who topped their group, will play the first leg away in Germany on March 10 or 11. The return leg will be at home in London a week later, on March 17 or 18. Seeded teams like Arsenal get to host the second game, which could be a big advantage.
This draw has been called “favourable” for Arsenal by many experts. Bookmakers now see the Gunners as clear favourites to lift the trophy, thanks to their strong path ahead. If they beat Leverkusen, they could face easier opponents in later rounds. Meanwhile, Leverkusen, the German side, finished second in their group but are no pushovers. They’ve been performing well domestically and in Europe.
🎙Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes on Arsenal's Champions League draw…..
🗣‘I was delighted with the draw,’ Rolfes said.
‘From a sporting perspective, both are obviously top opponents, but firstly, we’re facing two of our former players in Kai Havertz and Piero… pic.twitter.com/rHW08aVPx0
— Arsenal Radar (@ArsenalRadar) February 28, 2026
Rolfes’ Bold Verdict on Arsenal
Simon Rolfes didn’t hold back in his praise for Arsenal. In an interview, he said, “They have an extremely good squad with a lot of physical but also technical quality, pace, very well-coordinated and organised.” He noted how Arsenal have improved their playing style year after year under manager Mikel Arteta. That’s why, according to Rolfes, Arsenal are not just contenders but “among the top favourites” in both the Champions League and the Premier League.
Rolfes was happy with the draw. He called it a chance to face the top European opponents internationally in a non friendly match. “That’s what you compete for in the Champions League,” he added. His words show respect for Arsenal’s growth. Arsenal are leading the Premier League, with a mix of speed, strength, and smart tactics. This verdict from an opposing team’s chief adds weight to Arsenal’s rising status in Europe.
Former Players Add Emotional Twist
The matchup has a personal angle to it. Arsenal’s Kai Havertz started his career at Bayer Leverkusen yuth academy. He played there from 2016 to 2020 before moving to Chelsea. Simon Rolfes mentioned staying in touch with Kai Havertz and joked about him needing lots of tickets for the game. Havertz’s departure happened during COVID, so there was no proper goodbye. This return to the BayArena will be special for him.
There is also Piero Hincapie, who is officially a Bayer Leverkusen player but on loan at Arsenal. Facing his parent club will be emotional for the defender. Rolfes highlighted how both players add excitement to the tie. It’s not just a game; it’s a reunion with old ties.
Team Forms and What to Expect
Arsenal are in top form. They’ve cruised through the group stage and are dominating in England. Mikel Arteta reacted positively to the draw, saying his team needs to study Leverkusen closely while juggling multiple competitions. Projections give Arsenal a 62% chance of advancing, compared to Leverkusen’s 38%.
Leverkusen, under their coach, have been solid too. They went unbeaten in the Bundesliga last season and are challenging for titles again. But facing Arsenal’s attack, led by stars like Havertz and others, will test them. Experts rank Arsenal higher in the overall favourites list.
Looking Ahead to the Epic Clash
This verdict from Leverkusen’s chief boosts Arsenal’s confidence. It shows how far they’ve come under Arteta. Fans can’t wait for the action to start. In the end, it’s matches like these that make the Champions League the best club competition in the world.
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