3Views
Paris Saint-Germain have decided to start Ousmane Dembélé on the bench for their second leg of the Champions League semi-final against Arsenal at Parc des Princes.
DEMEBLE NOT IN STARTING LINEUP
Despite being fit to play, Ousmane Dembélé has not been included in PSG’s starting lineup for the clash against Arsenal. The French winger has been a key part of PSG’s Champions League campaign this season but will start the game on the sidelines as manager Luis Enrique has opted for different attacking options.
The official lineups reveal that PSG have fielded a strong team except for Presnel Kimpembe, who is still out with a foot injury.
SIGNIFICANCE FOR PSG AND THE TIE
This tactical decision comes at a critical moment in PSG’s season. The Parisians are fighting for a spot in the Champions League final after securing a positive result in last week’s first leg at the Emirates. Dembélé has scored four goals and provided six assists in all competitions this season, offering the team much-needed creativity and pace. PSG have already secured the Ligue 1 title, so their focus is on European glory, while Arsenal, despite being hit by injuries, remain dangerous as they chase their first final in this competition since 2006.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR NEXT
With PSG leading after Fabian Ruiz’s early goal in Paris, there will be keen interest in how soon Luis Enrique introduces Dembélé if the game tightens up. Arsenal are currently third in the Premier League, still fighting for a comeback, and are two points behind Manchester City in the title race. Both teams face important domestic matches this weekend, but tonight’s European semi-final will determine who advances to the biggest stage in club football. The winner will face either Borussia Dortmund or Real Madrid in the final.
PSG’s next league match is against Metz, while Arsenal will host Everton, with both teams still fighting for a top-four finish and domestic title hopes on the line.
