The UEFA Champions League final is just hours away, and Paris Saint-Germain faces a critical decision regarding two key players: Achraf Hakimi and Ousmane Dembélé. Will the Moroccan right-back and the French winger get the nod from Luis Enrique?
The Spanish coach has several tactical dilemmas to resolve before the kick-off. Here’s the most probable starting XI for PSG in this highly anticipated showdown.
In goal, Matvej Safonov is expected to retain his place between the posts. The Russian shot-stopper has firmly established himself as the first-choice goalkeeper following his impressive performances this season.
The defensive setup is likely to feature Nuno Mendes at left-back, a position he has dominated with consistency and flair throughout the campaign. The central defensive partnership is expected to be Marquinhos and Willian Pacho, combining experience with youthful energy.
Hakimi’s fate hangs in the balance
On the right flank, Luis Enrique must decide whether to start Achraf Hakimi, who has been sidelined since the semi-final against Bayern Munich. Despite his absence from recent action, the Moroccan is widely tipped to start, potentially at the expense of Warren Zaïre-Emery.
The midfield trio of João Neves, Vitinha, and Fabián Ruiz has been the backbone of the team’s success this season, and Enrique is unlikely to disrupt their chemistry. Their technical prowess and tactical discipline have been instrumental in PSG’s journey to the final.
Up front, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is set to start on the left wing, where his dazzling dribbles and creativity have made him a regular starter. Ousmane Dembélé, despite lingering doubts about his fitness, is expected to lead the attack, fully recovered and ready to take on Arsenal’s defense.
The right wing could see Désiré Doué get the nod, edging out competitors like Bradley Barcola and Gonçalo Ramos. The young Frenchman’s pace and direct style could provide the unpredictability PSG needs against their English opponents.
Most likely PSG starting lineup: Safonov; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes; Neves, Vitinha, Ruiz; Doué, Dembélé, Kvaratskhelia.
