PSG Vs Arsenal FC Lineups Last Season: A Detailed Review

The UEFA Champions League clash between Paris Saint‑Germain (PSG) and Arsenal FC in the 2025/2026 season captured the imagination of football fans worldwide. Both clubs entered the tie with high expectations, and the PSG Vs Arsenal FC lineups last season became a focal point for analysts trying to predict the outcome. This article breaks down the starting XI, formation choices, and tactical nuances that defined the two legs of the final‑stage encounter.

Season Context and Stakes

Entering the knockout phase, PSG were chasing their first Champions League title since 2021, while Arsenal aimed to secure their long‑awaited return to the European elite after a decade of rebuilding. Both sides had already secured crucial domestic successes, but the Champions League dream added extra pressure. The head‑to‑head match‑up was billed as a test of experience versus youthful dynamism, with each manager fielding what they considered the optimal eleven.

First Leg: PSG’s 4‑3‑3 Dominance

Played at the Parc des Princes, the home side opted for a classic 4‑3‑3, emphasizing width and quick transitions. The lineup was as follows:

Messi’s deeper role allowed him to orchestrate play, while Verratti provided the shield for the back four. The front three combined pace on the flanks with Ramos’s clinical finishing in the box.

Second Leg: Arsenal’s 4‑3‑1‑2 Adaptation

At the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal switched to a 4‑3‑1‑2 formation to counter PSG’s attacking threat and to exploit central spaces. Their starting XI was:

Ødegaard’s role as a deep‑lying playmaker gave Arsenal