Former Arsenal keeper identifies ‘weak link’ Arsenal can exploit in Champions League final

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Arsenal have been handed tactical advice ahead of their Champions League final showdown with Paris Saint-Germain, with a former Gunners goalkeeper identifying a potential vulnerability in the French side’s setup.

Graham Stack, who spent time at Arsenal earlier in his career, believes PSG goalkeeper Matvey Safonov could be the weak point that Mikel Arteta’s side should target at Wembley.

Russian goalkeeper under scrutiny

Safonov has become PSG’s first-choice goalkeeper this season after an unexpected rise to prominence, playing a crucial role in the club’s journey to another Champions League final. However, Stack has questioned the Russian’s reliability in high-pressure situations.

“From what I’ve seen, I’m not being convinced,” Stack told the Metro. “There were moments over the two legs against Bayern where he showed signs of vulnerability, certainly when balls were coming in the box.”

The former Arsenal keeper believes Safonov struggles particularly when dealing with deliveries into the penalty area and pressure situations. “I think he has got a mistake in him. From what I’ve seen, I think he’s one of the weakest links in that group,” Stack added.

Arsenal’s set-piece strength could prove decisive

Stack’s analysis points to an area where Arsenal have excelled under Arteta’s guidance. The Gunners have developed into one of Europe’s most dangerous teams from set pieces, consistently causing problems with their physicality and clever movement from corners and wide deliveries.

“If I was Arsenal, I would be putting him under severe pressure, certainly from set plays, which Arsenal are very, very good at,” Stack explained. “So balls in the box, when he’s put under pressure, from what I’ve seen, he looks very, very vulnerable.”

This tactical insight could prove valuable for Arsenal as they prepare for what many consider their biggest match in decades. The north London side have used their set-piece prowess to great effect throughout their Champions League campaign and domestic season.

PSG have developed into one of the most balanced and organised teams in Europe, making it challenging for opponents to identify obvious weaknesses. However, Stack’s assessment suggests that targeting Safonov from dead-ball situations could provide Arsenal with a route to European glory.

With both teams entering the final in strong form, individual moments and tactical details could ultimately determine who lifts the trophy. Arsenal will be hoping their set-piece expertise can help deliver the club’s first Champions League title.