News Focus
- Ousmane Dembélé and Achraf Hakimi recover from injury doubts to start in Budapest
- Warren Zaire-Emery set to drop to the bench after covering at right-back
- Fabian Ruiz returns to the midfield for the European showpiece
- Luis Enrique has a fully fit squad as he attempts to retain the trophy
Paris Saint-Germain will field their strongest available side against Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League final. Both Ousmane Dembélé and Achraf Hakimi have overcome fitness concerns to take their places in the starting eleven for the clash in Budapest on Saturday evening.
The Morocco international has not featured since the semi-final stage of the competition. Meanwhile, the France winger sustained a minor calf problem during the final Ligue 1 match against Paris FC. Medical staff have cleared both players to start.
Dembélé will lead the line as the central attacker. Hakimi returns to his usual right-back position.
Young midfielder Warren Zaire-Emery had covered for Hakimi during his absence. However, he is expected to drop to the substitutes’ bench. Fabian Ruiz will take his place in the centre of the park.
Manager Luis Enrique faces no injury absences as he seeks to defend the European crown. The Spanish coach can select from a complete squad.
The predicted starting eleven includes Matvey Safonov in goal. The defence comprises Nuno Mendes, Willian Pacho, Marquinhos, and Achraf Hakimi. Fabian Ruiz, Vitinha, and Joao Neves will operate in midfield. The front three features Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Ousmane Dembélé, and Désiré Doué.