Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) fields its strongest lineup for the Champions League final, making just one change from last year’s team. Goalkeeper Matvey Safonov steps in for the departed Gianluigi Donnarumma. The return to fitness of Fabian Ruiz enhances an impressive midfield, joining Vitinha and João Neves. Expect Achraf Hakimi to push forward often in Luis Enrique’s flexible system.
For Arsenal, Kai Havertz starts instead of star signing Viktor Gyokeres, who remains on the bench. Havertz, known for his playmaking abilities, adds depth to Arsenal’s attack. Having Gyokeres in reserve provides a potent scoring option if needed.
The Path to the Final
PSG:
- League phase: 11th place
- Playoffs: Monaco (5-4 on aggregate)
- Round of 16: Chelsea (8-2 on aggregate)
- Quarterfinals: Liverpool (4-0 on aggregate)
- Semifinals: Bayern Munich (6-5 on aggregate)
Arsenal:
- League phase: 1st place
- Round of 16: Bayer Leverkusen (3-1 on aggregate)
- Quarterfinals: Sporting Lisbon (1-0 on aggregate)
- Semifinals: Atletico Madrid (2-1 on aggregate)
Team Lineups
PSG: Matvey Safonov, Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Willian Pacho, Nuno Mendes, Vitinha, João Neves, Fabian Ruiz, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Ousmane Dembélé, Désiré Doué
Arsenal: David Raya, Cristhian Mosquera, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, Piero Hincapié, Declan Rice, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Martin Odegaard, Leandro Trossard, Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka
Officiating and VAR
German referee Daniel Siebert, who missed this year’s World Cup, officiates the final. He previously worked Arsenal matches in the tournament. Video review (VAR) will be used during the match.
Tactical Clash: Timber vs. Kvaratskhelia
PSG’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, crucial in past successes, will face Arsenal’s defender Jurrien Timber, who boasts a record of not being dribbled past in this season’s Champions League. Timber starts on the bench but is available if adjustments are needed.
Contrasting Playing Styles
PSG topped the scoring charts with 44 goals in this campaign, averaging over three goals per game. Arsenal’s strength lies in defense, conceding just six goals in 14 matches and achieving nine clean sheets.
Support from New York Mayor
NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani, a passionate Arsenal supporter, encourages the team to savor the moment. He credits his connection to Arsenal through family and sees supporting the team as nostalgic.
Fan Support and Stadium Atmosphere
PSG fans gear up for the match with a colorful display of blue, white, and red flags at the stadium. Arsenal fans, traveling from far, bring their chants and camaraderie, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Historical Venue
The Puskas Arena in Budapest, hosting its first European Cup final, is a significant venue. Hungary’s Prime Minister Péter Magyar plans to attend. The stadium has a history of hosting significant European matches, including the UEFA Super Cup and the Europa League final.
Fan Rivalry
Tensions flared between fans in Budapest’s popular nightlife area, resulting in police action. However, most interactions remained friendly and positive.
Entertainment and Timing
American band The Killers entertains fans prior to kickoff. UEFA shifted the match to an earlier start to accommodate global viewership and enhance accessibility for younger audiences.
Expectations and Motivations
PSG coach Luis Enrique believes repeating a title fuels strong motivation for his team. Arsenal’s manager Mikel Arteta emphasizes the team’s ambition driven by recent successes.
Both teams, PSG and Arsenal, arrive in Budapest after winning their respective domestic leagues, stirring excitement for potential victory in European competition.
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