Psg’s probable lineup for the champions league final: hakimi’s starting role in focus

The highly anticipated Champions League final is set for Saturday evening, and for Paris Saint-Germain, a significant question looms: will Achraf Hakimi and Ousmane Dembélé be fit to start for the reigning champions?

Manager Luis Enrique faces crucial decisions as he finalizes his squad. Here is the anticipated starting XI for PSG.

Matvej Safonov is expected to guard the net. He secured his position as the preferred goalkeeper over Lucas Chevalier mid-season, making a strong case for his inclusion.

In defense, the left-back position appears settled with Nuno Mendes. The Portuguese international remains a pivotal figure in PSG’s defensive setup.

The central defensive partnership will likely feature Marquinhos alongside Willian Pacho.

Will hakimi start?

On the right flank of the defense, Enrique must decide on Hakimi’s inclusion. The Moroccan star has not featured since the semi-final clash against Bayern Munich. Despite his recent absence, expectations are high that Hakimi will reclaim his starting spot, favored over Warren Zaïre-Emery.

While the talented French youngster, Zaïre-Emery, could easily slot into midfield, that area has seen a consistent and formidable trio establish itself throughout the season. João Neves, Vitinha, and Fabián Ruiz are all anticipated to take their places in the midfield against Arsenal.

Upfront, Enrique’s attacking choices are equally challenging. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is projected to start on the left wing, with the Georgian considered an undisputed starter in the Spanish coach’s offensive strategy. As the main striker, Dembélé is slated to lead the line.

Although there were lingering doubts regarding his physical condition, Dembélé is expected to be fully recovered and ready for kick-off. For the right-wing position, Enrique is likely to opt for Désiré Doué, placing him ahead of contenders such as Bradley Barcola and Portuguese forward Gonçalo Ramos.

Paris Saint-Germain’s probable XI: Safonov; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes; Neves, Vitinha, Ruiz; Doué, Dembélé, Kvaratskhelia.