Arsenal is set to face Paris Saint-Germain in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League final on Saturday. The match will take place at the Puskas Arena in Budapest. Notably, Eberechi Eze and Viktor Gyokeres have been left out of the starting lineup.
Changes in Arsenal’s Starting Lineup
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s head coach, has chosen to begin the match with Myles Lewis-Skelly in midfield. This position is typically held by Eze. He will partner with Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard.
This selection leads to a more defensive strategy as Arsenal aims to counter PSG’s strong offensive capabilities. On the wings, Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard will continue their roles. In the center forward position, Kai Havertz has been selected, resulting in Gyokeres starting on the bench.
Viktor Gyokeres’ Performance in Champions League
Leaving Gyokeres on the sidelines is notable. He has previously started every knockout-stage match for Arsenal this season. Out of 14 matches in the Champions League, Gyokeres started 11 and came off the bench once, missing two games due to injury.
He is Arsenal’s second-leading scorer in this Champions League campaign, netting five goals. Gabriel Martinelli is the top scorer for Arsenal with six goals. In comparison, Kai Havertz, who will lead the attack, has participated in only five matches owing to injuries, managing to score three goals.
PSG’s Consistent Lineup under Luis Enrique
In contrast to Arteta’s changes, PSG’s coach, Luis Enrique, has opted for continuity. His lineup shows no major surprises, sticking with the key players who led PSG to the final.
Midfielders Vitinha, Joao Neves, and Fabian Ruiz provide control and composure. In attack, the trio of Desire Doue, Ousmane Dembele, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia are set to maximize their scoring opportunities.
Match Implications
This final presents Arsenal with a critical opportunity to secure a prestigious title. The absence of key players like Eze and Gyokeres will challenge their depth. Meanwhile, PSG seeks to leverage its consistent lineup for victory.
As both teams prepare, all eyes will be on the Puskas Arena, anticipating an electrifying clash for the Champions League crown.
