As the UEFA Champions League final approaches, all eyes are on Paris Saint-Germain’s starting lineup. Will Achraf Hakimi and Ousmane Dembélé be among the players on the pitch when the whistle blows? That’s the pressing question for Luis Enrique ahead of the clash.
The Spanish coach faces a tough tactical puzzle in selecting his first XI. Here’s how the probable formation is shaping up.
In goal, Matvej Safonov is set to make his place his own. The Russian goalkeeper has been the established first choice since mid-season, overtaking Lucas Chevalier.
The defensive line features Nuno Mendes as a near-certainty at left-back, with the Portuguese defender enjoying a standout campaign in the French capital.
The heart of the defense is likely to be anchored by Marquinhos and Willian Pacho, forming a solid partnership throughout the season.
Will Hakimi start against Arsenal?
At right-back, Enrique must choose between Hakimi—currently recovering from injury—and Warren Zaïre-Emery. The Moroccan international missed recent action, but all signs point to him being fit enough to start. If he plays, he would take precedence over the young French midfielder.
The midfield trio of João Neves, Vitinha, and Fabián Ruiz has been a cornerstone of PSG’s consistency this season, and Enrique is expected to retain them.
Up front, the wingers are likely to be Khvicha Kvaratskhelia on the left and Désiré Doué on the right. The Georgian winger has been a regular starter, while Doué edges out competition from Bradley Barcola and Gonçalo Ramos.
Ousmane Dembélé is set to lead the attack, despite initial concerns over his fitness. His inclusion suggests full recovery, giving the French forward a chance to shine in the final.
PSG’s probable starting XI: Safonov; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes; Neves, Vitinha, Ruiz; Doué, Dembélé, Kvaratskhelia.
