Hakimi and Dembélé Ready for the Final
Excellent news for Paris Saint-Germain. Ousmane Dembélé, one of the leading contenders for the Ballon d'Or, and Achraf Hakimi, a key figure in Luis Enrique's system, are available for the UEFA Champions League final against Arsenal after overcoming the physical issues that raised concerns in recent weeks.
In Dembélé's case, concern emerged during a Ligue 1 match against Paris FC, when he was forced to leave the pitch due to calf discomfort. However, the French forward reassured supporters during a pre-match press conference.
"I had 10 to 15 days to recover. I feel 100 percent physically fit, and the rest of the squad is ready as well," the striker said.
Meanwhile, Hakimi suffered a muscle problem in his thigh during Champions League action against Bayern Munich. Fortunately for the Parisian side, the Moroccan defender completed training sessions over the past few days without any issues and was medically cleared to start at right-back in the most important match of the season.
Recoveries That Strengthen PSG
Beyond the individual names, the return of both players represents a major tactical boost for PSG.
Dembélé has become a crucial piece in Luis Enrique's system. While his offensive numbers have been outstanding, his importance goes far beyond goals and assists. The Frenchman is one of the team's first defenders whenever possession is lost. His speed in pressing, cutting passing lanes, and winning the ball back in advanced areas allows PSG to maintain the high-pressure style that has become one of the club's trademarks.
In addition, his ability to beat defenders one-on-one forces opposing backlines to provide constant cover, creating valuable space for his teammates in attack.
Hakimi, meanwhile, is one of the most influential full-backs in world football. His ability to cover the entire right flank makes PSG a much deeper and more aggressive team. When the Moroccan pushes forward, he creates numerical advantages, provides a constant outlet on the wing, and opens spaces for Dembélé to operate in more central areas.
The connection between the two has become one of the most dangerous weapons for the European champions. Their speed, movement, and tactical intelligence allow them to break defensive lines and create scoring opportunities on a consistent basis.
A Key Advantage Against Arsenal
Dembélé also expressed respect for Arsenal, highlighting the English side's threat from set-piece situations. For good reason. The Gunners were among Europe's most effective teams in this area throughout the season, scoring 24 goals from set plays in the Premier League and another five in the UEFA Champions League.
That is precisely why the presence of Hakimi and Dembélé could prove decisive for PSG. Beyond their offensive contributions, both players are essential to the team's immediate counter-pressing after losing possession, one of the key defensive principles of Luis Enrique's side. Dembélé has evolved into a forward fully committed to high pressing, while Hakimi provides the pace needed to recover defensively and shut down opposition transitions.
In a final that could ultimately be decided by the smallest details, having two players of this caliber back at full strength represents a massive advantage for the reigning European champions.
