Arsenal could be given an early boost heading into next weekend’s Champions League final, with new questions emerging over Achraf Hakimi’s suitability for Paris Saint-Germain.
The Gunners are preparing for one of the biggest games in modern history, when they take on PSG at the Puskas Arena in Budapest on Saturday, May 30th.
Arsenal are already riding a wave of confidence after winning the Premier League, but the latest injury update from the PSG camp could give Mikel Arteta’s side further encouragement.
L’Equipe reports that Hakimi is now increasingly unlikely to start the Champions League final after missing another key part of PSG’s preparations.
The Moroccan international did not take part in the internal training matches that international players take part in over the weekend, instead continuing to train individually as he recovers from a thigh problem.
Will Achraf Hakimi miss the Champions League final?
That’s a pretty big deal. Hakimi is more than just an ordinary full-back for PSG. He is one of their most dangerous outlets, especially when pushing high on the right flank and linking up with the forwards.
His pace, speed of recovery and attacking timing are huge assets, and even if he does end up on the bench, not starting will be a blow to Luis Enrique.
These concerns don’t come out of nowhere. Hakimi has already missed PSG’s Champions League semi-final second leg and the last four Ligue 1 games, so it’s clear this is not a small problem that disappeared overnight.
Reports suggest he is making progress, but the finals may be too early for him to start.
If he is left out of the XI, Warren Zaire-Emery could be used at right-back, with Fabian Ruiz potentially slotting into midfield.
Arsenal could benefit from PSG’s fitness issues
Ousmane Dembele is another name that Arsenal fans are keeping an eye on.
The French winger also did not take part in internal training, but his situation seems more positive.
He recently felt discomfort in his calf against Paris FC, but has publicly stated that he expects to be fit for the final.
Reuters reported that PSG plans to treat the problem, but manager Luis Enrique said the problem could be related to fatigue.
From Arsenal’s perspective, the timing is interesting. Arteta’s side have just celebrated their first Premier League title since 2004 with a win over Crystal Palace, and now have the chance to complete a historic double.
However, Hakimi’s absence will affect PSG’s balance. Arsenal could target that team more aggressively, especially if Bukayo Saka is not one of the best right-backs in the world and he plays against a replacement full-back.
Declan Rice names three Arsenal teammates as true leaders behind the scenes
