Champions League Final Build-Up: Neymar Injury Concerns, Transfer News and More – Football Live Updates
Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain are entering the Champions League final in Budapest with both clubs insisting they are ready for one of the biggest matches in European football. PSG manager Luis Enrique said Arsenal are a team they know well after meeting them in previous seasons, but stressed that finals demand a different approach and that his side must make the most of the occasion. He added that winning the competition is the strongest possible motivation, while acknowledging that a Champions League final may not come around often.
PSG forward Ousmane Dembélé said he is fully fit and not worried about missing the final after managing a minor injury concern. He said he stopped early as a precaution and has had enough time to prepare. Dembélé also praised Arsenal, describing them as an excellent side with strength in set pieces and across all areas of the pitch. He said their run to the final has been deserved. Midfielder Marquinhos echoed that view, saying PSG know Arsenal’s strengths but must be ready for anything because no one can predict how a final will unfold. He also highlighted the importance of leaders such as Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia in decisive moments.
Arsenal were holding final preparations in Budapest, including Mikel Arteta’s press conference and an open training session at the Puskas Arena. The club’s likely lineup and final tactical decisions are expected to become clearer as the match approaches. The buildup has focused heavily on Arsenal’s defensive structure, Bukayo Saka’s influence, and how the team might cope with PSG’s attacking threat.
Elsewhere in football news, Liverpool marked the 41st anniversary of the Heysel tragedy with a new memorial outside Anfield. The “Forever Bound” sculpture honors the 39 victims who died at the 1985 European Cup final in Belgium, and Juventus representatives were present at the unveiling.
In Scotland, national team coach Steve Clarke explained why he signed a new contract before the tournament. He said the extension provides stability, clarity and continuity for the squad, staff and future of Scottish football. Clarke said the decision followed reflection after Euro 2024 and the successful World Cup qualifying campaign.
There were also managerial developments across Europe. Rayo Vallecano coach Iñigo Pérez announced he is leaving after the club’s first major final defeat in the Conference League, while reports suggest Massimiliano Allegri is the leading candidate to take over at Napoli after Antonio Conte’s departure. In England, Bristol City are close to appointing Michael Skubala as manager after his successful spell with Lincoln City. Meanwhile, a YouGov survey found that most Premier League fans want VAR improved rather than scrapped, although many still view the system negatively.
