Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain are set to face off in the Champions League final tonight, with both teams boasting almost fully fit squads. This is a significant moment for Arsenal, who recently secured their Premier League title with a game to spare. Mikel Arteta had the opportunity to rest his key players during the final match of the season against Crystal Palace, making nine changes to his starting line-up. Players such as William Saliba, Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, and Martin Odegaard were not even called upon until the final whistle, marking a rare instance of rotation for Arteta.
Throughout the season, Arteta has been cautious about rotating his squad due to injury concerns. However, with the final approaching, he now has a strong team to choose from. The only injury concern for Arsenal is Ben White, who suffered a season-ending knee injury against West Ham earlier this month. His absence creates a challenge in the right-back position, but Jurrien Timber has made a return after a long layoff due to a groin injury. Arteta confirmed that Timber is ready to start the final, despite not playing in the last 14 games.
Arsenal XI to face PSG – prediction
Timber’s availability solves a major issue at right-back, allowing Arteta to name his first-choice back four for the first time in over two months. However, there are still some decisions to be made. Martin Zubimendi, who had started all 34 of Arsenal’s Premier League matches, was dropped in the recent game against Fulham. He was reportedly tired and lacked the form that had earned him praise as the signing of the season. Myles Lewis-Skelly was brought into the midfield, where he excelled alongside Declan Rice in the games against Fulham and Atletico Madrid.
Zubimendi has expressed that he feels “normal again” after being taken out of the team, but on form, Lewis-Skelly may feel he deserves the starting spot. Another key decision lies up front, with the choice between Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyokeres.
PSG’s secret tactic they could use tonight
In PSG’s semi-final second-leg against Bayern Munich, goalkeeper Matvey Safonov sent seven of his 11 goal kicks straight out of play. This unusual tactic allowed PSG to close down space effectively, with players pressing right in front of the touchline. This strategy denied Bayern the ability to quickly move the ball back up the field, limiting the impact of Michael Olise, who had previously thrived on the counter-attack.
PSG will likely employ a similar approach against Arsenal, focusing on restricting Bukayo Saka’s movement on the right side of the pitch. The French team also enters the final with minimal injury concerns, with Ousmane Dembele recovering from a minor issue. He played in the final Ligue 1 match against Paris FC but was forced off after just 27 minutes. Despite this, he has insisted he is 100% fit and ready to start.
Achraf Hakimi, who has been absent due to a muscle injury, will also be available for the final. Warren Zaire-Emery has filled in for him recently and has a strong case for retaining his place. Lucas Chevalier and Quentin Ndjantou have both been included in the 24-man squad following their injuries.
PSG XI to face Arsenal – prediction
The Champions League final is set to kick off at 5pm this evening. Fans can watch the match live on TNT Sports 1, with streaming available through the HBO Max app. For those unable to watch, follow the live matchday blog for updates. Additionally, previews of every World Cup team will be delivered directly to your inbox, featuring key players, must-watch games, and predictions for England’s performance.
