Paris saint-germain lineup ahead of champions league final against arsenal

The Champions League final is set to kick off this Saturday evening, and Paris Saint-Germain faces a critical tactical dilemma: will Achraf Hakimi and Ousmane Dembélé feature in the starting XI for the reigning European champions?

Luis Enrique’s task is far from simple. The Spanish coach must finalize his lineup while weighing form, fitness, and tactical balance. Here’s the most likely starting formation the PSG manager could deploy against Arsenal.

In goal, Matvej Safonov is expected to retain his spot, having leapfrogged Lucas Chevalier mid-season and established himself as the first-choice custodian.

At left-back, Nuno Mendes looks untouchable. The Portuguese full-back has been a standout performer and a key figure in PSG’s defensive setup all season.

The defensive core is likely to feature Marquinhos and Willian Pacho as the central pairing, providing both leadership and composure in the heart of the defense.

Hakimi’s fitness in focus

On the right flank, the biggest talking point remains Achraf Hakimi. The Moroccan international hasn’t featured since the semi-final victory over Bayern Munich, but all signs point to a return to the starting lineup. He is expected to edge out Warren Zaïre-Emery, who could otherwise slot into midfield.

The midfield trio of João Neves, Vitinha, and Fabián Ruiz has been the engine of PSG’s campaign, offering control, creativity, and dynamism. All three are set to start against the Gunners.

In attack, Ousmane Dembélé is poised to lead the line, despite early concerns over his fitness. The French winger has recovered ahead of schedule and should be fully available for the final showdown. On the opposite flank, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is tipped to start on the left, with the Georgian winger enjoying a consistent run as a starter under Enrique.

Out wide on the right, Désiré Doué is the likeliest choice, edging out competitors like Bradley Barcola and Gonçalo Ramos with his pace and direct dribbling.

Predicted Paris Saint-Germain XI: Safonov; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes; Neves, Vitinha, Ruiz; Doué, Dembélé, Kvaratskhelia.