UMVA has learned that a major injury update has emerged for Paris Saint-Germain ahead of the Champions League final, with Achraf Hakimi's fitness hanging in the balance.
The Morocco international's potential absence could be a significant boost for Arsenal, who are preparing to face PSG at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest on Saturday, May 30. Hakimi has been a key player for PSG, known for his pace, recovery speed, and attacking timing, making him a major weapon on the right side.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Hakimi did not take part in an internal training match involving squad players over the weekend, instead continuing with individual work as he recovers from a thigh problem. This has raised concerns about his ability to start the Champions League final.
Hakimi's absence would not be a minor blow for PSG, as he is one of their most dangerous outlets, especially when he pushes high on the right side and combines with the forwards. If he does miss out from the XI, Warren Zaïre-Emery could be used at right-back, with Fabián Ruiz coming into midfield.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Hakimi has already missed PSG's Champions League semi-final second leg and their final four Ligue 1 matches, indicating that this is not a minor issue. Reports suggest he is progressing, but the final may come too soon for him to start.
Arsenal could benefit from Hakimi's potential absence, as they may be able to target that side more aggressively, especially if Bukayo Saka is up against a replacement full-back rather than one of the best right-backs in the world. The Gunners are riding a wave of confidence after winning the Premier League title and now have a chance to complete a historic double.
Ousmane Dembélé, another PSG player, also sat out the internal session, but his situation seems more positive. He recently suffered calf discomfort, though he has publicly insisted he expects to be ready for the final.
