This semifinal matchup pits Mikel Arteta’s precision-built Arsenal against a PSG side chasing continental legitimacy under Luis Enrique. Both teams have showcased resilience and flair en route to this stage, and if you were to combine their top performers into a single XI, you would get a lineup built for balance, speed, and tactical brilliance. Here’s a look at the standout players from both sides.
Gianluigi Donnarumma – Goalkeeper, PSG
The Italian shot-stopper has been one of PSG’s most reliable performers this season, producing 5 clean sheets in the Champions League and averaging multiple saves per game. His reflex stop against Martinelli in the first leg reminded everyone why he’s still one of Europe’s best under pressure.
Achraf Hakimi – Right back, PSG
Hakimi’s overlapping runs and final-third contributions have been crucial, notching 4 goals and 8 assists in Ligue 1. He has averaged 2.1 key passes per UCL match and remains one of the most complete right-backs in world football.
Marquinhos – Center back, PSG
The PSG captain has organized the back line with experience and composure, making 18 clearances and 7 interceptions across the Champions League campaign. His leadership in tight knockout ties continues to be an underrated asset.
William Saliba – Center back, Arsenal
Saliba has become one of Europe’s top defenders, completing over 90% of his passes and helping Arsenal to 12 Premier League clean sheets. His positioning and ability to play out under pressure are hallmarks of Arteta’s system.
Jurrien Timber – Left back, Arsenal
Despite an early-season injury, Timber has made a strong return at just the right moment. A natural center-back by trade, his tactical awareness and composure in possession make him an ideal hybrid fullback for this XI.
Declan Rice – Defensive midfielder, Arsenal
With 4 Champions League goals and an 87% tackle success rate in the Premier League, Rice has been Arsenal’s midfield anchor. His range of passing and ball recoveries has been vital in controlling transitions.
Martin Ødegaard – Central midfielder, Arsenal
The Norwegian captain is Arsenal’s creative heartbeat. Although he went missing in the first leg, his work rate and ability to break lines with passes and movement elevate Arsenal’s attacking rhythm. He has scored three UCL goals and created countless chances.
Vitinha – Central midfielder, PSG
Vitinha is PSG’s unsung hero. He has a 94% pass accuracy in the Champions League and is growing in influence in tight midfield battles. His dribbling and press resistance allow PSG to maintain control even under duress.
Ousmane Dembélé – Right winger, PSG
Dembélé’s end product has finally caught up with his skillset, delivering 33 goal contributions this season across all competitions. His 65% dribble success rate and ability to destabilize any backline make him undroppable. His strike in the first leg in London remains the difference maker between the two sides.
Bukayo Saka – Left winger, Arsenal
Saka leads Arsenal in Champions League contributions with 5 goals and 2 assists, consistently delivering in high-stakes moments. He ranks in the top three in the competition for expected assists, underlining his creative output.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia – Left forward, PSG
PSG’s $72 million January signing has hit the ground running, with 6 goals and 4 assists in Ligue 1 since arriving from Napoli. His explosive dribbling and outside-in runs have added a new dimension to PSG’s flank play.
