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

Arsenal vs PSG Champions League Final: Timber Return Hands Arteta Major Boost

Timber Fitness Changes Arsenal Picture

Arsenal approach the Champions League final against PSG with a timely lift. Jurrien Timber is back, fit and ready, a significant development for Mikel Arteta before the biggest night of his managerial career.

The Dutch defender has been absent since mid-March with an ankle injury, missing 14 matches across all competitions. Yet his return to training this week, followed by his place in the travelling squad to Budapest, has shifted the mood around Arsenal’s preparations.

Arteta confirmed before the final that Timber was now available and ready to start. Against PSG, that matters. Few opponents stretch a back line like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, whose direct running, balance and appetite for one versus one duels could define Arsenal’s right side.

Defensive Calls Carry Huge Weight

With Mikel Merino also available again, Arsenal have options, although Ben White remains the only confirmed absentee. If Timber does not start, Cristhian Mosquera is expected to step in at right-back at the Puskas Arena.

Photo IMAGO

That decision could be crucial. PSG’s threat is not only in their pace, but in how quickly they turn possession into panic. Arsenal will need composure, aggression and clear communication from the first whistle.

Midfield Balance May Shape Final

In midfield, Myles Lewis-Skelly has recently been preferred to Martin Zubimendi and could retain his place alongside Declan Rice. It would be a bold call, but one reflecting Arteta’s trust in energy, discipline and tactical maturity on the grandest stage.

Martin Odegaard is likely to start as he seeks to become the first Arsenal captain to lift the Champions League trophy. His intelligence between the lines could be vital, even if it means Eberechi Eze begins on the bench.

Arteta Faces Big Forward Decision

Leandro Trossard is expected to start on the left after rediscovering his earlier season sharpness. On the right, Bukayo Saka remains central to Arsenal’s attacking identity.

The major call comes through the middle. Viktor Gyokeres has scored 21 goals this season and has found form at the perfect time. Yet Arteta has often trusted Kai Havertz in major fixtures and, now fully fit, the German could lead the line against PSG.

Noni Madueke is fit after his Crystal Palace scare, while David Raya has recovered from a back issue sustained against Burnley. Arsenal arrive close to full strength, and close to history.

Predicted Arsenal XI, 4-2-3-1: Raya, Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori, Rice, Lewis-Skelly, Saka, Odegaard, Trossard, Havertz.