In a highly anticipated UEFA Champions League semifinal second leg, Arsenal will face Paris Saint-Germain at the Parc des Princes on May 7, 2025, with both teams eager to secure a spot in the final. The Gunners trail 1-0 from the first leg, where Ousmane Dembélé's early strike proved decisive. As the tension mounts, both squads have made key adjustments to their lineups.
Arsenal welcomes back Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey, who missed the first leg due to a suspension. His return is a significant boost for Mikel Arteta's side, which struggled without his presence in midfield. Partey brings a wealth of experience, composure, and defensive security, which the Gunners sorely lacked in the previous match. Arteta has opted for a powerful midfield trio, pairing Partey with Declan Rice and teenager Myles Lewis-Skelly. Martin Ødegaard will captain the side, while Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli provide width in attack, supporting Mikel Merino.
Partey hinted at his readiness for this crucial clash, posting a matchday graphic on his Instagram story just hours before kickoff. His involvement is expected to add balance and grit to Arsenal's game plan as they aim for their first Champions League final appearance since 2006. Arteta acknowledged the importance of Partey’s return, stating, "He gives options and a different threat. It gives us flexibility to change the game."
Meanwhile, PSG's head coach Luis Enrique has made the surprising decision to name Dembélé on the bench. The French winger was instrumental in PSG's first-leg victory, scoring the only goal of the match. However, he has been recovering from a muscle injury. Enrique's choice suggests he may utilize Dembélé as a late-game substitute, depending on how the match unfolds.
In the first leg, Arsenal's midfield struggled to control the game without Partey, and his absence was felt deeply by the squad. Despite the loss, Arteta praised the performances of Declan Rice and Mikel Merino, calling them "enormous" in their efforts to fill the gap left by Partey. However, the return of the Ghanaian international adds a layer of experience and stability that could prove crucial in this high-stakes match.
Arsenal's lineup features a blend of youth and experience, with Martin Ødegaard leading the team as captain. The Norwegian playmaker's vision and creativity will be vital in unlocking PSG's defense. The Gunners will look to capitalize on their attacking options, with Saka and Martinelli expected to stretch the play wide and create opportunities for Merino to exploit in the center.
On the defensive side, Arteta has maintained consistency, with Jurrien Timber and Jakub Kiwior flanking William Saliba in central defense, protecting goalkeeper David Raya. This solid backline will be crucial as they face a formidable PSG attack, which will be bolstered by the likes of Kylian Mbappé and Neymar, even without Dembélé starting.
As the match approaches, the stakes couldn't be higher for both teams. Arsenal is desperate to overturn the first-leg deficit, while PSG seeks to maintain their advantage and secure a place in the final. The atmosphere at the Parc des Princes is expected to be electric, with fans eagerly anticipating a thrilling encounter.
With Dembélé on the bench, PSG has a tactical option to bring in a game-changer if the situation calls for it. His pace and dribbling ability can turn the tide of a match in an instant, making him a player to watch even from the sidelines. Enrique's decision to rest Dembélé suggests a cautious approach, ensuring he is fit for any potential late-game heroics.
As the teams take the pitch, all eyes will be on Partey and Dembélé. Partey's return could be the key to Arsenal's revival in this tie, while Dembélé's presence on the bench looms large, offering PSG a potent weapon should they need to secure their lead. Fans are left wondering: can Arsenal overcome the odds, or will PSG's strategy pay off?
The stage is set for an unforgettable night of football, with both teams aiming for glory in the Champions League. As the clock ticks down to kickoff, the anticipation is palpable, and the outcome remains uncertain. Will Arsenal's midfield shine with Partey back in action, or will PSG's tactical decisions lead them to victory once more? Only time will tell as the drama unfolds in Paris.
