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Why Achraf Hakimi misses PSG’s latest league match as huge decision made before Arsenal clash in Champions League

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PSG star Achraf Hakimi is a key absence from the squad ahead of their Ligue 1 clash with Nantes, just one week before the side takes on Arsenal in the Champions League.

The Paris-based club have already sealed the league title under Luis Enrique, meaning their sights are firmly set on Arsenal.

Mikel Arteta has already managed to get one up over the French giants this season, beating them in the league phase of the Champions League.

Fast forward a few months, though, and there has been plenty of change for both teams.

Arsenal take on PSG in the semi-finals of the competition, with the final on the horizon, though there is league action to take care of first.

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PSG rest Achraf Hakimi for clash with Nantes as squad revealed

While PSG and Arsenal will be thinking about the Champions League meeting next week, they have other issues to attend to.

Arsenal take on Crystal Palace in the Premier League in midweek before preparing for European action in the week ahead.

Meanwhile, PSG are featuring in Ligue 1, taking on Nantes on Tuesday night, exactly one week before they travel to the Emirates Stadium.

Both teams will be cautious when it comes to injuries, wanting their key players fit and available for the following week.

With that in mind, PSG have announced their squad to take on Nantes, which has one noticeable absence in Achraf Hakimi.

While the full-back is out of action, RMC Sport claims that it is due to selection calls rather than anything relating to injury.

It’s stated that PSG are already thinking ahead to the Arsenal game, resting Hakimi in anticipation for the clash.

Arsenal FC v Paris Saint-Germain - UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD2
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Arsenal face rotation decision against Crystal Palace

While PSG seem intent on making some rotations to their team, it remains to be seen what Arsenal will do.

Mikel Arteta has a clear weekend, meaning a six-day gap awaits before taking on the French side at the Emirates Stadium.

Whether the Arsenal boss feels that is enough time to allow his starters to face off against Crystal Palace and have a rest remains to be seen.

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There is also the risk of injury to some key stars, with Bukayo Saka’s latest injury scare a clear reminder of the decision to be made.

It remains to be seen whether Arteta will make that call or not for the big match.