Key Highlights
- Mikel Arteta names Kai Havertz to start against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final.
- Arsenal makes eight changes from their previous game, with only a few players keeping their places.
- PSG makes five changes and has several key players returning after injuries or rest.
- Havertz aims to replicate his 2021 Champions League final winner’s performance.
The Arsenal Line-Up: A Tactical Shift for the Final
As Mikel Arteta prepares for this evening’s Champions League final, he has opted for a significant shift in his starting lineup. With eight changes from the team that won against Crystal Palace six days ago, the manager is clearly looking to shake things up.
The Arsenal Changes
While Cristhian Mosquera, Piero Hincapie, and Myles Lewis-Skelly remain in their defensive roles, the backline sees a reshuffle. Gabriel and William Saliba return to central defense, while Lewis-Skelly moves into midfield alongside Declan Rice and captain Martin Odegaard. The wing positions favor Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard, with Havertz starting up front.
PSG’s Line-Up: A Return to Form
Paris Saint-Germain have also made significant changes to their team that faced neighbors Paris FC two weeks ago. Ousmane Dembele, Achraf Hakimi, and Nuno Mendes are fit for the final after injuries or rest. William Pacho comes in on defense, with Desire Doue replacing Bradley Barcola on the wing. Joao Neves returns to the lineup as Lucas Beraldo drops to the bench.
History and Stakes
Havertz’s inclusion is a nod to his previous success in the 2021 final, where he scored the winning goal. This experience will be crucial for Arsenal as they seek another title. The bench is packed with talent too, including Jurrien Timber, who has missed the past couple of months due to injury.
For PSG, while they’ve already secured the Ligue 1 title, this final represents a chance to cement their status as one of Europe’s best teams. Their lineup shows a mix of returning stars and young talent ready to make an impact.
The Final Countdown
Before kick-off, Arsenal fans are encouraged to read our bumper match preview, filled with stats, tactical analysis, history, and more. This comprehensive guide will help you prepare for the biggest game of the season.
The stakes couldn’t be higher as two of Europe’s top teams clash in the Champions League final. With a rich history between them, this match promises to be one of the most anticipated games of the year.