The X Factor Fallacy: Why Arsenal's Champions League Hopes Are Built on Sand Paul Merson has sparked debate about Arsenal's ability to win the Champions League by criticizing their summer signings, particularly Kai Havertz.
He suggests that the German midfielder lacks the X factor needed to take the Gunners all the way. The term "X factor" is often used interchangeably with "star power," but it implies something more complex.
A closer look at Arsenal's recent history reveals a pattern: despite having one of the strongest squads in the Premier League, they consistently fall short in Europe's top competition.