Hakimi returns to PSG training ahead of Champions League final against Arsenal

Achraf Hakimi has been included in Paris Saint-Germain’s squad for Saturday’s Champions League final against Arsenal at Puskas Arena in Budapest, after the Morocco captain returned to group training on Tuesday following a hamstring injury.

Hakimi, 27, picked up the problem during the first leg of PSG’s Champions League semi-final against Bayern Munich and missed the second leg — a 5-4 win at the Allianz Arena — as well as four Ligue 1 fixtures. His availability for the final had been in doubt, with both PSG and Morocco’s national team closely monitoring his recovery ahead of the World Cup 2026.

According to Spanish outlet AS, PSG have not officially confirmed that Hakimi will start, but his return to full training and inclusion in the squad represents a significant boost for Luis Enrique’s side. The Madrid-born defender has been central to PSG’s European campaign, scoring the decisive goal in last season’s semi-final against Arsenal and opening the scoring in their final victory over Inter Milan.

Hakimi’s value to PSG extends well beyond his defensive duties. Despite nominally operating as a right-back, he functions as a key attacking outlet, regularly occupying advanced positions that few full-backs in world football would attempt. His absence from the semi-final second leg was widely considered a meaningful handicap for the French champions.

PSG are bidding to become back-to-back Champions League winners, having beaten Arsenal in last season’s semi-final before lifting the trophy. Arsenal, who have since won the Premier League title, now stand between Luis Enrique’s side and consecutive European crowns.

Ousmane Dembélé is also expected to be fit for the final after recovering from a minor injury of his own, giving PSG a near full-strength attacking unit for the showpiece in Hungary.