Arteta's Unchanged Lineup Faces PSG with Merino on the Bench: Champions League Showdown Preview
ICARO Media Group
### Arteta Sticks with Winning Formula for PSG Clash, While Merino Makes the Bench
In tonight's eagerly anticipated Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain, Mikel Arteta has opted to stick with the same starting lineup that triumphed over Leicester City with a 4-2 win last Saturday. This decision extends the team's impressive unbeaten streak to 14 games. Notably, Riccardo Calafiori, who sustained a minor knock towards the end of the Leicester game, is fit to play.
A significant boost for the squad comes with Mikel Merino being included in the matchday roster for the first time since his recovery from a shoulder injury. The Spanish midfielder could mark his debut should Arteta decide to call him from the bench.
Opponents Paris Saint-Germain have made several key adjustments, including the omission of Ousmane Dembele due to disciplinary issues. Taking his place in the lineup is Desire Doue, a £45 million acquisition from the summer transfer window.
Additionally, Gianluigi Donnarumma returns to his goalkeeping duties after a four-game hiatus caused by a muscular injury. Nuno Mendes makes his comeback at left-back, having overcome a recent virus, while Vitinha replaces Fabian Ruiz in central midfield. Another notable inclusion is Marco Ascensio, who, although not starting, is fit enough to be named a substitute.
Both managers will undoubtedly look to their squads to secure a crucial victory in this Champions League encounter.