Paris Saint-Germain’s preparations for the UEFA Champions League final against Arsenal F.C. have been thrown into chaos after a worrying injury update involving Achraf Hakimi and Ousmane Dembélé.
Just days before the biggest match of the season, PSG were dealt a potentially devastating blow when both stars missed an important in-house training friendly, immediately sparking fears over their availability for the final in Budapest.
For Arsenal, the timing could hardly be more significant.
Hakimi has been one of PSG’s most influential players throughout their European campaign, dominating the right flank with his pace, creativity, and relentless attacking runs. The Moroccan international has become a vital weapon in Luis Enrique’s tactical setup, and any absence would massively weaken the French champions on both ends of the pitch.
Reports from France suggest the defender is still struggling with a thigh injury picked up during PSG’s semi-final battle and has yet to fully return to training. With the final rapidly approaching, concerns are growing that Hakimi may not be fit enough to start against Arsenal.
The uncertainty surrounding the 27-year-old has now become one of the biggest talking points ahead of the final, with PSG insiders reportedly preparing contingency plans in case he fails to recover in time.
But Hakimi is not the only concern.
PSG are also anxiously monitoring the condition of Ousmane Dembélé after the explosive winger was also left out of the practice match. Dembélé has been one of Europe’s most dangerous attacking players this season, and his absence would be another major setback for the Ligue 1 giants.
Although the French international has publicly expressed confidence that he will be ready for the final, PSG’s medical staff are said to be taking no risks as they race against time to get both players fit.
The double injury scare has suddenly shifted momentum ahead of the showdown, with Arsenal supporters sensing a huge opportunity.
Mikel Arteta’s side have already exceeded expectations with their run to the final, eliminating several European heavyweights along the way. Now, with PSG potentially missing two of their most dangerous stars, belief is rapidly growing among the Arsenal faithful that this could finally be their year to conquer Europe.
Should Hakimi fail to recover, Luis Enrique may be forced into a major tactical reshuffle, with versatile youngster Warren Zaïre-Emery among the options being considered to fill the gap at right-back.
The situation leaves PSG facing an anxious wait before kickoff, while Arsenal continue their preparations knowing the balance of the final could be shifting in their favour.
One thing is certain, the fitness of Achraf Hakimi and Ousmane Dembélé could ultimately decide who lifts the Champions League trophy.
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