PSG will take on Arsenal in the 2025/26 Champions League final, aiming to retain the crown. Should they succeed, Luis Enrique and his players will replicate an achievement previously only managed by Real Madrid in the Champions League era.
Before kickoff, PSG's starting lineup draws special attention as the French side virtually has its strongest squad available. The best news for Coach Luis Enrique is that right-back Achraf Hakimi has returned to normal training after suffering a hamstring injury in the semifinals.
The Moroccan star missed some recent matches, but his recovery went smoothly, and he is expected to start in the season's most important game. Hakimi's return significantly boosts PSG's wide attacking ability and transition speed.
Additionally, Ousmane Dembele is fully ready after minor fitness concerns. The reigning Ballon d'Or winner remains PSG's top attacking hope. This season, Dembele has frequently shone in big matches, especially against Liverpool and Bayern Munich in the Champions League knockout stages.
Supporting Dembele will be two extremely dangerous sparks: Desire Doue and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. This trio forms one of Europe's most effective front lines. PSG has scored 44 goals in the Champions League this season, a tally only surpassed by a few teams in the tournament's history.
In midfield, Luis Enrique continues to trust the trio of Vitinha, Joao Neves, and Fabian Ruiz. This area is seen as providing balance for PSG through ball control, tactical rotation, and effective defensive support. Notably, Fabian Ruiz has shown great influence since returning from a knee injury.
The defense remains familiar faces, with Marquinhos serving as the leader alongside Willian Pacho. On the left flank, Nuno Mendes continues to be relied upon for his all-around attacking and defensive abilities.
PSG's strongest lineup for the Champions League final is expected to be: Safonov; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Nuno Mendes; Vitinha, Joao Neves, Fabian Ruiz; Desire Doue, Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
With an almost full-strength squad and consistent form throughout the season, PSG is considered a strong contender for the 2025/26 Champions League title. However, facing an Arsenal in peak form, the French side will certainly face a challenging 90 minutes if they want to continue dominating European football.