PSG make surprise Achraf Hakimi decision giving Arsenal boost for Champions League semi-final

The mind games have already begun from Paris Saint-Germain, seven days out from the start of Arsenal's Champions League semi-final tie.

As Luis Enrique's side had already sealed the French Ligue 1 title when they had six matches left to play earlier in April, they have the luxury of being selective of who they risk looking ahead to the upcoming double-header against the .

Arsenal first host their opposition next Tuesday, April 29 the Emirates Stadium before venturing to Paris for the Parc des Princes return leg on Wednesday, May 7.

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There is still an element of pride are playing for in their domestic league as they can becoming the first-ever side in the country to go an entire campaign unbeaten.

However, Enrique is seemingly willing to make big decisions as influential right back has been left out of the Parisien's squad that travel to Nantes for a meeting tonight.

believe that the Moroccan international has not suffered a fresh injury concern to cause this. Instead, he is only being rested with Arsenal in mind.

The 26-year-old, who scored in the second-leg quarter final meeting with Aston Villa, has already played 42 matches for his club this term, starting 40 of those.

This latest decision comes days after Ousmane Dembele - who is by far PSG's most dangerous attacker with 32 goals and 11 assists in 2024/25 - .

Arsenal meanwhile are torn between Premier League and European duties.

Mikel Arteta's men face Crystal Palace on Wednesday night, requiring at least a point to keep themselves in the title race. Defeat would hand the trophy to Liverpool.

It is their duty to make sure the fight goes on as long as possible, even if the Reds could end things once and for all on Sunday by beating Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield.

Not playing this weekend as they are doing so on Wednesday, the Gunners have benefit of getting six days to rest and recover ahead of PSG.