Champions League final lineup: will Hakimi start for PSG?
The Paris Saint-Germain faces a decisive moment ahead of Saturday’s Champions League final. Coach Luis Enrique must decide whether to include Achraf Hakimi and Ousmane Dembélé in the starting eleven for the title defense.
The team’s probable lineup will hinge on fitness and tactical choices, with key positions under scrutiny. Here’s how the French side is likely to line up against Arsenal.
Goalkeeper decision and defensive setup
In goal, Matvej Safonov is expected to start, having overtaken Lucas Chevalier in the pecking order mid-season. His consistency has earned him the nod ahead of the French goalkeeper.
Defensively, the left-back role appears settled with Nuno Mendes, a standout performer for PSG this season. The central defense partnership is likely to be Marquinhos and Willian Pacho, combining experience with defensive solidity.
Hakimi’s return and midfield dynamics
The right-back position presents a dilemma. Achraf Hakimi, who hasn’t featured since the Champions League semifinal against Bayern Munich, is expected to start. His inclusion could come at the expense of Warren Zaïre-Emery, who has been a regular in midfield.
The midfield trio of João Neves, Vitinha, and Fabián Ruiz has been the spine of the team this season. Enrique is unlikely to disrupt this balance, ensuring stability in the heart of the pitch.
Attacking options and wing selections
Up front, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is set to start on the left wing, a position he has made his own. Ousmane Dembélé, despite earlier concerns over his fitness, is expected to lead the attack. His recovery has been closely monitored, and he is poised to return to the starting lineup.
On the right wing, Désiré Doué is favored over alternatives like Bradley Barcola and Gonçalo Ramos. His pace and directness could provide a key attacking outlet against Arsenal’s defense.
Probable PSG starting XI: Safonov; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes; Neves, Vitinha, Ruiz; Doué, Dembélé, Kvaratskhelia.