Arsenal Starting XI vs PSG: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup | OneFootball

Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs PSG: Injury News, Squad Updates and Tactical Changes

Tonight’s Champions League semi-final first leg between Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain is a moment of truth, not just for Mikel Arteta’s evolving side but for the tactical structure he has carefully built over the course of the campaign.

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The Gunners are expected to welcome back two important names for this seismic tie at Emirates Stadium – and both returns could prove pivotal.

Key Boosts Ahead of PSG Clash

Mikel Merino’s fitness had been in question after missing the 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace last week. Yet, optimism returned when he completed Monday’s training session. Merino, who has been impressively versatile since February, is likely to shift back into midfield rather than continue his stint further forward.

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Ben White also took part in full training and is available for selection, offering a further lift to Arsenal’s defensive options. “Ben and Mikel, they were able to train [on Monday]. Let’s see if they are able to start tomorrow, and Ricky is still not fit,” confirmed Arteta at his pre-match press conference.

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However, Arteta must still contend with the absence of key figures. Thomas Partey is suspended, while Jorginho and Riccardo Calafiori remain sidelined due to injury. As Arteta put it, “We know that we lost Thomas unfortunately very late in the game against Real Madrid.”

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Midfield Reshuffle on Cards

Partey’s suspension forces a significant adjustment in Arsenal’s midfield shape. Declan Rice, who has flourished in an advanced role this season, will likely drop deeper to anchor the midfield. Merino would then partner Rice, alongside the ever-influential Martin Odegaard.

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This reshuffle allows Leandro Trossard to continue leading the line, a role he has seized with authority in recent weeks, netting four goals already this month.

Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli are tipped to start on either wing, providing width and pace that will be crucial in unsettling PSG’s backline. Martinelli, who came off the bench against Palace, is expected to reclaim his place from the start.

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Defence Set to Stay Unchanged

Given how Arsenal managed to nullify Real Madrid’s fearsome attack in the quarter-finals, Arteta is unlikely to tinker with his backline. Jakub Kiwior is expected to start alongside William Saliba at centre-back, with Jurrien Timber and Myles Lewis-Skelly likely filling the full-back roles.

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David Raya, who has provided assurance between the posts during this European run, will retain his spot as Arsenal’s No.1.

Predicted Arsenal Lineup vs PSG

Predicted Arsenal XI (4-3-3): Raya; Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Rice, Merino; Saka, Trossard, Martinelli.

Kick-off at the Emirates is set for 8.30pm GMT, with Amazon Prime providing live coverage. Slavko Vincic will referee what promises to be a gripping encounter.