Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Champions League match.
Despite winning three straight matches since their defeat to Inter Milan (0:1) in early November, Arsenal are yet to secure their spot in the Champions League round of 16. Their trip to Girona should be a formality for Arsenal , who will have one eye on Sunday’s crucial Premier League clash against Manchester City, likely prompting them to conserve energy in Spain.
Girona
Girona’s promising start to 2025, marked by a 1:0 victory over Alavés, has quickly given way to a decline in form. Losses to Sevilla and Rayo Vallecano in La Liga (both 1:2), as well as to AC Milan in the Champions League (0:1), suggest that they are in for a tough season. The Catalans are locked in at 28th place in the group stage standings and have managed only four goals in seven matches—ranking as the third-worst attacking side.
Arsenal
Arsenal have displayed dominance in their Champions League campaign, with emphatic victories over Sporting CP (5:1), Monaco, and Dinamo Zagreb (both 3:0). At the Emirates against the Croatian champions, they allowed just 0.13 xGA, and they trail only Inter Milan in defensive solidity, having conceded just two goals compared to Inter’s one.
Girona vs Arsenal Prediction
In Girona, Arsenal are expected to rotate their squad, giving opportunities to motivated reserves. With Martin Ødegaard, Kai Havertz, and Leandro Trossard likely to be rested, Arsenal’s creative output may be limited.
