It’s match eve in Budapest as Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain make their last preparations for tomorrow’s massive Champions League final.
Mikel Arteta’s side are back in European football’s biggest game for the first time in two decades and plotting more success after a long-awaited Premier League win. Arsenal have never won this competition but have been given a significant injury boost with Jurrien Timber returning to training ahead of the decider. Can they deny PSG back-to-back tournament crowns? Arteta is due to speak to the press later on Friday.
The French capital club perhaps have an advantage over their opponents having wrapped up their domestic title rather more comfortably than their counterparts. With such a diverse, dynamic and devastating group of attacking talents at their disposal, PSG begin as favourites for European glory in a classic clash of contrasts that could create a vintage Champions League final.
Follow all of the latest from The Independent’s writers in Budapest with our live blog below:
The Mikel Arteta method that could turn Arsenal into Champions League winners
Maybe it is the method against the magic. Arsenal could be damned with faint praise when compared with Paris Saint-Germain, their more structured style of play contrasted with something more fluid and fast. And yet, should they become champions of Europe for the first time, it might be the product of planning.
Whether or not it is actually done on spreadsheets, it has the feel of a project pursued in a logical, disciplined manner, the product of an organised mind. Mikel Arteta is far from the only elite manager who is accused of being a control freak but, especially as Arsenal now have the vantage point of being Premier League champions there is an orderly look to their progress.
The Mikel Arteta method that could turn Arsenal into Champions League winners
A methodical, but ruthless, approach to recruitment has steadily built Arsenal into a side capable of challenging PSGRichard Jolly in Budapest29 May 2026 12:19
Champions League: PSG v Arsenal build-up and latest news
Good afternoon and welcome to the Independent’s build-up to the biggest game in European club football as Arsenal face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final tomorrow.
Budapest hosts the match, with expectations high.
Can the Gunners lift the trophy for the first time in their history or will PSG land a historic repeat after last year’s crushing win over Inter Milan?
Join us for the latest updates and news, with Miguel Delaney and Richard Jolly reporting from Budapest.
Jack Rathborn29 May 2026 12:09