Arsenal win title, rest stars before final
Arsenal wrapped up the Premier League title with a relaxed 2–0 win at Crystal Palace on Sunday, just six days before they face you in Budapest. Mikel Arteta rotated heavily, giving key players a breather ahead of the Champions League final. Gabriel Jesus and Noni Madueke got the goals at Selhurst Park (9). The Gunners are arriving with momentum, a full trophy cabinet, and fresh legs. This won't be easy.
Dembélé: 'I questioned myself enormously'
Ousmane Dembélé has opened up about his journey to the final, admitting he went through deep self-reflection to reach this level. "Je me suis énormément remis en question", I questioned myself enormously, he said ahead of Saturday (7). It's the kind of honesty that shows how much this moment means to him. A focused, humbled Dembélé is exactly what you want lining up against Arsenal.
Barcola rumors won't go away
Barcelona and Arsenal are reportedly circling Bradley Barcola, with talk of a €70M move that could sour the buildup to the final (3). Liverpool are also said to be monitoring him. The timing is terrible, but Barcola's head seems firmly on Budapest. Expect him to start on Saturday.
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Squad news: good vibrations
Luis Enrique has received a flurry of positive updates, injured players returned during an internal friendly, the U18s just won the Coupe Gambardella to lift spirits, and the manager gave the squad 48 hours off to decompress (4). PSG also confirmed they're covering travel costs for all staff attending the final, a classy touch that contrasts sharply with Arsenal's stance.
Chevalier to Rennes gathering pace
Lucas Chevalier's move to Stade Rennais is looking increasingly confirmed for this summer (5). The goalkeeper hasn't broken through at PSG, and with Safonov and Donnarumma ahead of him, a departure makes sense for all parties. One to watch once the final is done.
Parc des Princes sale talks stay secret
Paris deputy mayor Emmanuel Grégoire refused to discuss any price tag for the Parc des Princes, calling negotiations confidential (2). The club wants to buy the stadium outright, but the city is keeping its cards close. Don't expect resolution before Saturday, and frankly, you've got bigger things to think about.
Fan reactions
The mood is a mix of nervous energy and pure excitement. Fans are devouring the club's 'Road to Budapest' YouTube series, a 14-episode match-by-match recap of the Champions League run. There's also debate over which UEFA foundation patch will appear on the final jersey, with some spotting discrepancies between the PSG store and team photos. And at least one supporter is scrambling to find a bar in Heraklion after landing just an hour before kickoff. Join the buildup on Reddit
