PSG prepare for Arsenal set-piece threat ahead of Champions League final
Paris Saint-Germain have begun specific training to counter Arsenal’s set-piece tactics ahead of their Champions League final meeting in Budapest on 30 May.
The Ligue 1 leaders are leaving nothing to chance as they anticipate a physical aerial battle against Mikel Arteta’s side.
Footage from the French giants’ training sessions shows goalkeepers Matvei Safonov and Lucas Chevalier rehearsing routines to deal with corners and free-kicks.
The Premier League contenders have built a formidable reputation from dead-ball situations this season.
Enrique skips awards to study Gunners
The Parisian club’s preparations are so intense that manager Luis Enrique chose to miss the recent UNFP award ceremony to focus on their English opponents.
“I never go to these kinds of events, I prefer to stay home, I need to study Arsenal.”
The Spanish coach praised his domestic peers but emphasised his immediate priority remains securing European glory.
Domestic duties remain
Before travelling to Hungary, the current league leaders must navigate their final domestic fixtures against Lens and Paris FC.
They currently sit six points clear at the summit of the French top flight with just two matches remaining.
Their manager highlighted the physical toll of a congested fixture list, with the upcoming Lens tie arriving just three days after their previous outing.
“We have injured players and others who have played two matches in a row. We have to manage it,” Luis Enrique added.
“Tomorrow, we will show what kind of team we are, our ambition.”
Defensive blow for north Londoners
The Gunners have their own injury concerns to manage ahead of the showpiece event.
Key defender Ben White has reportedly been ruled out of the final, dealing a significant blow to their tactical plans.