The three key changes Mikel Arteta can make to his Arsenal team to beat PSG in revenge fixture

Arsenal’s upcoming clash against Paris Saint-Germain presents a golden opportunity for revenge after their previous defeat. Mikel Arteta’s side has shown tremendous growth this season, but to overcome a star-studded PSG, tactical adjustments will be crucial. Here are three key changes Arteta can implement to secure victory.

 

1. Strengthen the Midfield Battle with a Double Pivot

PSG’s midfield, featuring the likes of Vitinha and Warren Zaïre-Emery, is dynamic and press-resistant. In their last meeting, Arsenal’s single pivot (likely Declan Rice) was occasionally overrun.

 

Solution:

– Deploy a double pivot of Rice and Jorginho/Thomas Partey to add defensive stability.

– This allows Rice to push forward when needed while ensuring PSG’s creative midfielders are constantly pressured.

– A double pivot also helps in quick transitions, preventing Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé from exploiting counter-attacks.

 

2. Exploit PSG’s Defensive Vulnerabilities with Overlapping Full-Backs

PSG’s full-backs—Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes—are attack-minded, often leaving gaps behind. Arsenal’s wingers (Saka, Martinelli) can exploit this if supported by overlapping runs.

 

Solution:

 

– Encourage Ben White and Oleksandr Zinchenko/Takehiro Tomiyasu to push high, forcing PSG’s wingers to track back.

– Quick switches of play to isolate Saka/Martinelli against PSG’s full-backs in 1v1 situations.

– Early crosses into the box for Kai Havertz or Gabriel Jesus, as PSG’s center-backs (Skriniar/Marquinhos) can be vulnerable aerially.

 

3. Adjust the Pressing Triggers to Limit Mbappé’s Influence

Mbappé thrives in open spaces, and Arsenal’s high line could be risky if not executed perfectly.

 

Solution:

– A mid-block press rather than an all-out high press to deny Mbappé space in behind.

– Force PSG’s midfielders to play wide, where Arsenal can trap them using aggressive wing pressing.

– William Saliba must stay tight to Mbappé, using his pace and physicality to disrupt his rhythm.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Arteta has the tools to outwit Luis Enrique’s PSG, but it will require midfield control, attacking full-backs, and smart defensive adjustments. If Arsenal can execute these tweaks, they have a strong chance of avenging their previous defeat and making a statement in Europe.