Arsenal head into next weekend's Champions League final with a potential advantage after fresh doubts emerged over Achraf Hakimi's availability for Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest.

The two clubs meet at the Puskás Aréna on Saturday, 31 May, in what represents one of the most significant occasions in Arsenal's recent history. The Gunners arrive in Hungary buoyed by their Premier League title triumph, and news from the PSG training camp could lift their spirits further.

Hakimi's absence deepens concern

According to L'Equipe, cited by CaughtOffside, Hakimi is growing increasingly unlikely to start the final. The Morocco international was absent from an internal training match involving PSG squad members over the weekend, continuing instead with individual rehabilitation work as he manages a thigh problem.

This is no minor setback. Hakimi has already been absent for PSG's Champions League semi-final second leg and their final four Ligue 1 fixtures, making it clear the issue has persisted for some time.

His importance to Luis Enrique's system cannot be overstated. When Hakimi pushes forward on the right flank and combines with the forwards, he functions as one of PSG's most potent attacking outlets — his pace, timing, and recovery speed setting him apart from a conventional full-back.

Reports indicate he is making progress in his recovery, but the final may arrive before he is ready to start. Should he miss out on the XI, Warren Zaïre-Emery could deputise at right-back, with Fabián Ruiz shifting into midfield to fill the gap.

Dembélé situation more encouraging

Arsenal fans have kept a close eye on Ousmane Dembélé as well. The French winger also sat out PSG's internal training session, though the indications surrounding his fitness are more positive.

Dembélé picked up calf discomfort during the match against Paris FC and has since undergone treatment. He has publicly stated he expects to be fit for the final, and Luis Enrique suggested the issue may be related to fatigue rather than a structural concern.

For Arsenal, managed by Mikel Arteta, any disruption to PSG's attacking unit will be welcome news. A Hakimi-less PSG side would look meaningfully different down the right side — and that could open up opportunities for the Gunners to exploit when the final kicks off in Budapest.