Achraf Hakimi likely to start on bench against Arsenal

Achraf Hakimi expected to start on bench in Champions League final as Luis Enrique leans toward in‑form options at right-back and midfield.

PSG are preparing for a second straight Champions League final, this time against Arsenal in Budapest on 30 May, but Achraf Hakimi is not currently tipped to make the starting XI.

The Moroccan full-back has been out since 28 April, when he was injured in the semi-final first leg against Bayern Munich, and his lack of rhythm could cost him his place. While many expect him to be fit in time, the technical staff are carefully weighing up form and fitness before making their final call.

On the right side of defence, Warren Zaïre-Emery is emerging as the favourite to start, supporting Marquinhos, Pacho and Nuno Mendes in the back line. L’Equipe journalist Dominique Severac did not hide his conviction about the hierarchy.

“I think Hakimi won’t play in the final against Arsenal and that Zaïre-Emery will be at right-back. Hakimi has been out of action since April 28th, the first leg against Bayern Munich in the semi-final. We’re talking about a Champions League final… April 28th to May 30th, 32 days without playing, excuse me… It’s not the final against Milan,” he said.

Luis Enrique could also opt for Fabian Ruiz in midfield to ensure he fields the sharpest possible XI on the night. The big unknown now is whether Hakimi can string together enough full training sessions in the next ten days to change the coach’s mind and reclaim a starting place.