Paris Saint-Germain have been handed a significant advantage ahead of the UEFA Champions League final against Arsenal, with two key players returning to training just days before the showdown.
PSG Edge Past Bayern Munich in Semifinal
Les Parisiens secured their second consecutive Champions League final appearance after defeating Bayern Munich 6-5 on aggregate in the semifinals. A thrilling 5-4 victory in the first leg in Paris was followed by a 1-1 draw at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday, May 6. Ousmane Dembele opened the scoring in the third minute, linking up with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, before Harry Kane scored a late consolation goal for Bayern in the 90+4 minute, assisted by Alphonso Davies.
Arsenal's Road to the Final
The Gunners reached their first Champions League final since 2006 after edging past Atletico Madrid 2-1 on aggregate in a tense semifinal tie. A solitary goal from Bukayo Saka proved decisive, securing Arsenal's place in the showpiece event. The London club will be seeking their first European title since their 2006 loss to Barcelona.
Dembele and Hakimi Return to Training
The duo of Ousmane Dembele and Achraf Hakimi have returned to training ahead of the final. According to Football London, Dembele participated in full-team training on Tuesday, May 26, after the squad was given a few days off. Although he did not feature in an indoor friendly match organized by manager Luis Enrique, his recovery is on track. Dembele suffered an injury during PSG's Ligue 1 clash against Paris FC earlier this month.
Meanwhile, Achraf Hakimi has been included in Morocco's World Cup squad as he continues his recovery. The right-back has missed the last month with a thigh injury but is reportedly on course to return this weekend, per Supersport.
PSG Prepare for Set-Piece Threat
Paris Saint-Germain have reportedly intensified preparations to counter Arsenal's set-piece prowess. PSG players were seen practicing defensive routines for corner kicks and free kicks during training sessions. The Ligue 1 champions are specifically working with goalkeeper Matvey Safonov on handling physical pressure during dead-ball situations.
Merino Returns for Arsenal
Arsenal have also received a boost as midfielder Mikel Merino returned to training. Merino had been a doubt after suffering a foot injury in January, but his recovery has handed manager Mikel Arteta optimism ahead of the final.
The Champions League final is set to take place at the Pukas Arena in Budapest on Saturday, May 30.
