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

PSG vs Arsenal: Dembele Returns as French Side Prepare for Champions League Showdown

Ousmane Dembele’s recovery couldn’t have been timed better. Paris Saint-Germain’s influential forward has shaken off a hamstring injury just in time for the club’s Champions League semi-final second-leg tie against Arsenal. His availability is more than a boost—it’s a potential match-winner.

Dembele’s early strike at the Emirates last week carved open Arsenal’s defence and stunned the London crowd. PSG’s narrow advantage from that first leg now sets the stage for a pulsating decider under the lights at the Parc des Princes.

There had been doubts after he was forced off in the 70th minute against Arsenal and then sat out the Ligue 1 loss to Strasbourg at the weekend. But back in training by Monday evening and confirmed fit by Luis Enrique on Tuesday, Dembele’s name is now expected to headline the team sheet.

Minimal changes expected from Enrique

Continuity is likely Enrique’s game plan. PSG are expected to field the same starting XI that performed in the first leg, with youngster Desire Doue tipped to retain his spot ahead of Bradley Barcola. Doue impressed when deputising for Dembele against Strasbourg, while Barcola’s full 90 minutes suggest he’ll return to the bench.

Gianluigi Donnarumma, solid and dependable in the first leg, will anchor the side in goal, with Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes occupying the flanks. Marquinhos and Willian Pacho remain the preferred central duo in defence, with Presnel Kimpembe still sidelined due to swelling in his foot.

Midfield engine room stays unchanged

Joao Neves was the only starter from the Arsenal game to feature in the domestic defeat at the weekend, which hints heavily at a midfield trio of Neves, Fabian Ruiz and Vitinha starting once again. That triangle has been integral to PSG’s European form this season, balancing ball retention with fast transition play.

Up front, Dembele is set to be flanked by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia on one side and Doue on the other. If this trio clicks, Arsenal’s defenders could be in for a long night. However, Lee Kang-in remains a doubt after suffering a shin complaint and could miss out entirely, reducing Enrique’s options off the bench.

High stakes in Paris under Champions League glare

The prize is enormous: a place in the final in Munich on 31 May against Inter Milan. For PSG, it’s a chance to finally fulfil their long-held European ambitions. For Arsenal, it’s the opportunity to rewrite their Champions League narrative after years in the wilderness.

Kick-off is at 8pm BST tonight, with Felix Zwayer of Germany officiating. PSG fans will be hoping that Dembele’s return isn’t just symbolic, but decisive.

Predicted PSG XI (4-3-3): Donnarumma; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Nuno Mendes; Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz, Joao Neves; Kvaratskhelia, Dembele, Doue