Arsenal cruised to a comfortable and deserved victory over Paris Saint-Germain after excelling in the first half at the Emirates Stadium.

Following a draw in their first match of this new Champions League league phase the Gunners hoped to overcome the French champions and signal that they are a team which can go all the way in this tournament.

Mikel Arteta’s side started slowly, absorbing a bit of early pressure and playing themselves into the game. They drew PSG out of position and broke down the left wing through Leandro Trossard. He flicked the ball into the box and found Kai Havertz who headed in the opener.

It was one of many chances Arsenal created in the first 20 minutes or so and when Bukayo Saka added a second from a wide free kick the hosts were well on top. In the second half, PSG responded well but couldn’t find a way through Arsenal’s stubborn defence.

The Gunners saw out the match, took the three points and are on track to move towards the top eight and an automatic spot in the knockout rounds.

Relive the Champions League updates below:

Arsenal vs PSG LIVE

• REPORT: How the Champions League surrendered its competitive edge

• FT Arsenal defeat PSG 2-0 in the Champions League

• 54’ SAVE! Donnarumma keeps out Martinelli’s volley (ARS 2-0 PSG)

• 35’ GOAL! Saka scores from a wide free kick (ARS 2-0 PSG)

• 29’ CHANCE! Nuno Mendes misses a shot from range (ARS 1-0 PSG)

• 20’ GOAL! Havertz nods the Gunners ahead (ARS 1-0 PSG)

• 9’ CLOSE! Saka curls a shot over the crossbar (ARS 0-0 PSG)

Arsenal FC 2 - 0 Paris Saint-Germain FC

With its new league phase it is clear the Champions League has surrendered its competitive edge

22:15 , Mike Jones

A “big Champions League night” that ended up being quite a nice-run out for Arsenal. Qatari-owned Paris Saint-Germain looked less a sportswashing project and more a youth project. The level of superiority in this 2-0 win is again to Arsenal’s credit, but should also be a worry for Uefa.

This was one of the big-name fixtures that the new Champions League was sold on - more games between the best, more fixtures, more, more, more - and yet it didn’t really feel like either side treated it as a match of much consequence. It was a world away, say, from 2000-01 when Lyon came to North London and Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal absolutely knew they had to do something.

If it is by now becoming tedious to read about these issues, it is worth remembering that such themes only arise because very little of consequence happens on the pitch. Here, in just the second of eight games, Arsenal got the win that already puts them more than half-way to the top 24. PSG, by contrast, already had their victory from the opening 1-0 win over Girona. It consequently felt like both teams were looking at the game in a wider context, rather than necessarily treating it as an exacting Champions League occasion in itself.

How the Champions League surrendered its competitive edge

Arteta on Kai Havertz:

22:34 , Mike Jones

“He has been unbelievable. His football brain, the way he understands space, his timing, he brings people together. Hs work ethic is incredible and now he is a real threat around the box. He is one of our main players at the moment.”

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, speaking to Amazon Prime:

22:33 , Mike Jones

“Really, really happy with the performance. We played an opponent that has a lot of personality, is really difficult to deal with when you don’t have the ball.

“The first half was very dominant and we created a lot of chances and then the second half was a different story.

“We suffered much more than we should have done. The Champions League brings different demands but I think we handled it really well.”

PSG’s unfortunate away trips

22:25 , Mike Jones

Since beating Manchester United at Old Trafford in December 2020, Paris St-Germain have lost all four of their away Champions League matches in England, losing twice to Manchester City and once apiece to Newcastle and Arsenal.

Arsenal cruise past PSG at the Emirates Stadium

22:20 , Mike Jones

Arsenal cruised to a comfortable and deserved victory over Paris Saint-Germain after excelling in the first half at the Emirates Stadium.

Following a draw in their first match of this new Champions League league phase the Gunners hoped to overcome the French champions and signal that they are a team which can go all the way in this tournament.

Mikel Arteta’s side started slowly, absorbing a bit of early pressure and playing themselves into the game. They drew PSG out of position and broke down the left wing through Leandro Trossard. He flicked the ball into the box and found Kai Havertz who headed in the opener.

It was one of many chances Arsenal created in the first 20 minutes or so and when Bukayo Saka added a second from a wide free kick the hosts were well on top. In the second half, PSG responded well but couldn’t find a way through Arsenal’s stubborn defence.

The Gunners saw out the match, took the three points and are on track to move towards the top eight and an automatic spot in the knockout rounds.

Arsenal’s tight defence

22:17 , Mike Jones

Arsenal have kept 17 clean sheets in 32 games in all competitions in 2024, the most of any Premier League side. Indeed, across Europe’s big-five leagues this year, only Real Madrid have kept more (18).

Arsenal eighth in table

21:59 , Mike Jones

High scoring results from the rest of tonight’s fixtures (Borussia Dortmund beat Celtic 7-1!) mean that Arsenal sit eighth in the Champions League table after two fixtures.

They’re unbeaten and have four points. It was calculated that 16 should be enough to secure an automatic spot in the knockout rounds. That’s the aim for all of these teams.

FT Arsenal 2-0 PSG

21:55 , Mike Jones

Full-time! Arsenal 2-0 PSG

21:51 , Mike Jones

90+4 mins: Calm, confident and composed. It’s the type of performance Mikel Arteta wants to regularly see from his players, especially in games such as these against the French champions.

Arsenal always looked like the better side and goals from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka were more than enough to earn them the three points.

Arsenal 2-0 PSG

21:47 , Mike Jones

90 mins: Four minutes of added time to play at the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal 2-0 PSG

21:47 , Mike Jones

87 mins: This match is heading to its conclusion quickly. Arsenal are in no rush, no hurry and are under no pressure from the visitors.

It would be some turnaround if PSG were to score here.

Arsenal 2-0 PSG

21:41 , Mike Jones

84 mins: PSG have another corner from the same side they hit the woodwork from. Lee Kang-In delivers it once more and finds Marquinhos but the defender can’t quite direct his header on target.

Arsenal 2-0 PSG

21:40 , Mike Jones

81 mins: Inside the last 10 minutes now with neither side really pushing on. Arsenal are comfortable, PSG know a defeat here won’t harm their chances of finishing in the top 24 and earning a shot at the knockout rounds.

Arsenal 2-0 PSG

21:35 , Mike Jones

78 mins: Riccardo Calafiori and Fabian Ruiz have a little argy bargy between themselves which the referee isn’t fond of. He tells both men to cut it out then issues a yellow card each.

The ball then bounces up and hits Calafiori on the arm inside the Arsenal box. PSG want a penalty but nothing comes from it.

Arsenal 2-0 PSG

21:32 , Mike Jones

75 mins: Here comes Gabriel Jesus.

Leandro Trossard, who’s had a fine night in London, heads off for the Brazilian. There’s a touch over quarter of an hour for Jesus to make an impact.

He’s searching for a first goal in 19 games.

Arsenal 2-0 PSG

21:30 , Mike Jones

72 mins: Arsenal have just dipped in tempo and desire which is understandable at 2-0 up. PSG remain a threat though and Mikel Arteta will want at least one more goal before his side begin to coast to the end of the game.

Arsenal 2-0 PSG

21:27 , Mike Jones

69 mins: Arsenal have been under a bit of pressure but that’s eased after some fine centre forward play from Kai Havertz. He chests a long ball under control, holds it up and lays it off to Bukayo Saka who gives it to Leandro Trossard.

Trossard switches the play and Arsenal fly up the pitch.

Arsenal 2-0 PSG

21:23 , Mike Jones

66 mins: Corner for PSG.

Lee Kang-In whips the set piece in towards the near post where it’s turned towards goal. David Raya is left scrambling as the ball strikes the woodwork and bounces away!

Arsenal get away with one.

Arsenal 2-0 PSG

21:22 , Mike Jones

63 mins: Here come the changes. Luis Enrique brings off Vitinha and Desire Doue with Fabian Ruiz and Randal Kolo Muani introduced to provide a bit of spark in the forward line.

Mikel Arteta meanwhile takes off Thomas Partey and sends on Mikel Merino for his first appearance since signing for the Gunners in the summer.

His reception is loud.

Arsenal 2-0 PSG

21:19 , Mike Jones

60 mins: PSG have made 32 passes in the final third in the second half but are yet to attempt a single shot since half-time.

Mikel Arteta is preparing some changes on the sidelines.

Arsenal 2-0 PSG

21:14 , Mike Jones

57 mins: PSG look to break against Arsenal high press but can’t get the final pass right. The hosts recover and get back in a solid shape as Desire Doue brings the ball down the left.

He’s forced to shoot from a long way out and doesn’t cause much trouble for David Raya.

Arsenal 2-0 PSG

21:11 , Mike Jones

54 mins: Save!

A superb flick on from Kai Havertz sends Gabriel Martinelli free inside the PSG penalty area. The winger watches the ball drop over his shoulder then volleys a good effort straight at Gianluigi Donnarumma who makes a comfortable save.

Arsenal 2-0 PSG

21:08 , Mike Jones

51 mins: Declan Rice enterprises to drive down the left wing. The defenders scurry across but are in no rush to tackle him. Instead he looks for the cross and puts the ball out of play hoping for a corner.

Arsenal 2-0 PSG

21:04 , Mike Jones

48 mins: Nuno Mendes dinks a hopeful ball over the top and picks out Bradley Barcola who takes on Calafiori. He skips around the defender and lays the ball across the box but can’t find a teammate.

Arsenal manage to work it away but that was a nervy moment for them.

Second half! Arsenal 2-0 PSG

21:03 , Mike Jones

Mikel Arteta has made a change at the break with Jurrien Timber taken off for Jakub Kiwior. Kiwior has slotted in at left-back with Riccardo Calafiori moving to the opposite side of the pitch.

The Gunners kick off the second half.

HT Arsenal 2-0 PSG

20:58 , Mike Jones

Bukayo Saka’s goal for Arsenal means he has two goals and five assists in nine games this season.

HT Arsenal 2-0 PSG

20:54 , Mike Jones

HT Arsenal 2-0 PSG

20:50 , Miguel Delaney at the Emirates Stadium

“One of Arsenal's best performances of the season so far, to the point it briefly quietened PSG's boisterous away support. After Bukayo's Saka free-kick cross went straight in for the second, there was silence from the away end, which was then met with "you're not singing any more".

“PSG's fans instead persevered through it, which was probably needed.

“Other than a brief spell at the start where Mendes hit the post and Hakimi forced a good save from Raya, Arsenal have been in complete control.

“You can actually see the experience difference in the teams, given that PSG have actually belatedly pursued the Arsenal model of trying to build a young team from the ground up.

“Arsenal are simply much more advanced. They've looked several levels above since Kai Havertz turned in Leandro Trossard's cross with a header for the first.”

Half-time! Arsenal 2-0 PSG

20:46 , Mike Jones

45+1 mins: A superb half of football for Arsenal. They were patient and played their way into the match.

After the first goal, Arsenal have been dominant but they’ve not really been tested in front of their own goal which will please David Raya.

Mikel Arteta will be more than pleased with that peformance so far.

Arsenal 2-0 PSG

20:44 , Mike Jones

44 mins: Another free kick is floated into the box by Saka with Trossard the target after a late run to the far post. The pass is too high and long though and bounces out of play befor ehe can reach it.

Arsenal 2-0 PSG

20:41 , Mike Jones

41 mins: Saka, Havertz and Trossard move the ball brilliantly with pace and accuracy over on the right side of the box. Saka to Havertz to Trossard, back into the box for Saka’s run but the flag goes up for offside.

PSG look all at sea.

Arsenal 2-0 PSG

20:39 , Mike Jones

38 mins: Arsenal are proving just why they were the big favourites before kick off. They’re enjoying themselves now and making PSG search for answers.

It’s a confident and composed performance that has the fans chanting and singing loudly.

GOAL! Arsenal 2-0 PSG (Bukayo Saka, 35 minutes)

20:36 , Mike Jones

Nuno Mendes seems to get the better of a duel with Saka and forces the winger over to the touchline. Saka feels a slight push in the back and goes over winning a free kcik for Arsenal.

Saka himself curls the set piece into the penalty area and whips it towards the near post. Arsenal’s players attack the ball and confuse the sight of the goalkeeper.

No-one touches the ball and it skips through before landing in the back of the net!

Arsenal 1-0 PSG

20:32 , Mike Jones

32 mins: Save!

Achraf Hakimi leads from the front with a storming run down the right wing. He’s too quick for Riccardo Calafiori to keep up with and sweeps around the Arsenal left-back before cutting into the box.

A shot or square pass (it’s hard to tell which) is drilled towards the near post but David Raya shuts it out with relative ease.

Arsenal 1-0 PSG

20:29 , Mike Jones

29 mins: Oh wow!

That came from nothing. Nuno Mendes dances around Bukayo Saka and moves into the inside left channel. He decides to let fly and smokes a left-footed effort at goal.

David Raya leaps across but can’t get to the ball and luckily for Arsenal it skips just wide of the far post.

Arsenal 1-0 PSG

20:26 , Mike Jones

26 mins: Bradley Barcola is played into space and forces Arsenal to back track. Jurrien Timber closes off the space in the box then times his tackle expertly to disposses the Paris forward.

The Arsenal fans enjoyed that one and make their delight known with cheers.

Arsenal 1-0 PSG

20:23 , Mike Jones

23 mins: Now PSG need to respond.

Luis Enrique did not look too pleased after that goal went in and he can probably tell that his team are second best over these opening 20 minutes or so.

Arsenal have had plenty of chances with the visitors offering little in response.

GOAL! Arsenal 1-0 PSG (Kai Havertz, 20 minutes)

20:21 , Mike Jones

Just like that!

Kai Havertz is the man to break the deadlock. Arsenal bring the ball down the left after Thomas Partey recovers the ball. Leandro Trossard carries it forward before lifting a cross into the box.

Gianluigi Donnarumma comes out for the ball but times it wrong. He can’t get there and Havertz is on hand to nod the ball into the near bottom corner.

Arsenal 0-0 PSG

20:18 , Mike Jones

18 mins: There’s a frustrating pattern developing in this match. PSG get possession, look to pass through Arsenal, get pushed back then win a goal kick and restart the whole process.

The Gunners need to get on the ball and force the issue.

Arsenal 0-0 PSG

20:16 , Mike Jones

15 mins: Saka swings a high cross into the PSG box but Donnarumma confidently comes off his line and plucks it out of the air. From the restart, the visitors look to tempt Arsenal out of their shape but are finding no joy trying to play out from defence.

Arsenal 0-0 PSG

20:12 , Mike Jones

12 mins: At the other end of the pitch PSG win a corner. It gets whipped into the middle of the box where Joao Neves flicks it on only for Leandro Trossard to head it away.

On the edge of the box Nuno Mendes arrives and attempts an ambitious volley which sails well wide of the target. It wasn’t a close effort but it’s a sign of PSG’s desire to attack the Gunners.

Arsenal 0-0 PSG

20:09 , Mike Jones

9 mins: Close!

Arsenal recover the ball in the middle of the pitch and break quickly through Riccardo Calafiori. He drives into the middle of the pitch before lacing a pass out to Saka on the right.

Saka cuts ont his left foot and shoots but his curling effort just flies over the far corner of the goal.

Arsenal 0-0 PSG

20:06 , Mike Jones

6 mins: Donnarumma and Martinelli are both fine to continue. Arsenal attempt to play out from the back but Bukayo Saka loses possession after a tackle from Bradley Barcola.

There’s no space in the box for him to operate and Arsenal’s quick movement sees them swarm the forward and win themselves a free kick.

Arsenal 0-0 PSG

20:05 , Mike Jones

3 mins: Gianluigi Donnarumma is down after a collision with Gabriel Martinelli. The Arsenal winger is slipped into the box and drives at the PSG goalkeeper chasing after the loose ball.

The goalkeeper gets there first but needs a bit of treatment after the two collide.

Kick off! Arsenal 0-0 PSG

20:01 , Mike Jones

Paris Saint-Germain get the ball rolling and send it back to captain Marquinhos. He boots a long ball over to the left wing but Arsenal turn over possession and slide it up to Bukayo Saka.

Saka goes on an early run and darts inside before looking to pick out Leandro Trossard.

Arsenal vs PSG

19:57 , Mike Jones

Here come the teams. Arsenal are the favourites to win tonight as PSG continue to rebuild and reshape their team under manager Luis Enrique.

Mikel Arteta’s side have come through that stage and are now hoping to achieve the historic feat of winning the Champions League. First though they’ll need to get through tonight’s match.

Kick off is up next...

Arsenal vs PSG

19:54 , Mike Jones

A reminder that tonight’s match is being shown on Amazon Prime Video. Coverage started at 6.30pm with Gabby Logan on presenting duties.

The teams are amassing in the tunnel ready to take to the pitch at the Emirates Stadium.

Is Saka Arsenal’s key man?

19:52 , Mike Jones

Bukayo Saka has been directly involved in seven goals in five Champions League appearances at Emirates Stadium (four goals and three assists).

It is the most combined goals and assists by an Arsenal player through his first five home matches in the competition.

Arsenal vs PSG

19:47 , Mike Jones

PSG have lost six of their last nine Champions League games against English opposition, including each of their last three. Their 4-1 defeat at Newcastle United last term was their heaviest away defeat to an English opponent.

Only three players have played for both Arsenal and PSG in the Champions League, with Mikel Arteta being one of those along with Nicolas Anelka and Lassana Diarra.

Arsenal looking forward to PSG clash

19:42 , Mike Jones

Mikel Arteta said: “We’re looking forward to it. These are the kind of nights that we want to experience and want to have against an unbelievable opponent. [PSG] are exceptional.

“They have a very clear intention of how they want to dominate the game through the ball and when they don’t have it, they want it straight back.

“We know after the draw in Atalanta, with the number of games we have left still, it’s going to be really important. Nothing is going to be decided tomorrow.”

PSG in great form

19:36 , Mike Jones

Four wins and 16 goals from the opening four games in Ligue 1 was a perfect start for defending champions PSG. A 1-1 draw at Reims followed their Champions League opener, when a last-minute own goal by Paulo Gazzaniga saw claim a fortunate 1-0 home win against Girona.

Away form has been an issue for PSG in European football’s premier competition though .They’ve won just twice in their last seven trips away and have not kept a clean sheet in any of their last 19 matches stretching back to October 2020.

Luis Enrique on Arsenal:

19:30 , Mike Jones

“I think Arsenal are one of the best teams in Europe at the moment. ‘With the ball they are a team very close to the top European level and without the ball they are also very good.

“I would even say that they are one of the best teams in the world without the ball. They are a team with a real identity. We are similar but also have different styles of play.”

Martin Keown accuses old enemy Ruud van Nistelrooy of waiting for Manchester United to sack Erik ten Hag

19:24 , Mike Jones

Martin Keown has accused his old enemy Ruud van Nistelrooy of waiting in the wings for Manchester United to sack Erik ten Hag.

Ten Hag is coming under increasing pressure as the manager at Old Trafford after a poor start to the season, underlined by the weekend’s 3-0 thrashing at the hands of Tottenham Hotspur.

Van Nistelrooy, who was brought in by fellow Dutchman Ten Hag as an assistant coach over the summer, has been reported as a possible interim solution to take charge of the team should the club move to sack the manager.

Keown accuses old foe Van Nistelrooy of waiting for Man Utd to sack Ten Hag

Arsenal back in the top flight

19:18 , Mike Jones

This is Arsenal’s 21st Champions League campaign – second only to Manchester United’s 25 among English clubs – but only their second in the last eight seasons.

The 2016/17 season had been their 19th in a row, all under Arsene Wenger.

The Gunners finished first in Group B last season, ahead of PSV Eindhoven, Lens and Sevilla, having won four of their six games. They then edged past Porto in their first round of 16 success since 2009/10 but lost out to Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals.

However, Arsenal have won 11 of their last 15 home European matches, losing only one.

‘They are really tough’ says Arteta

19:12 , Mike Jones

Mikel Arteta added: “They are really tough. They dominate every phase of play and they have very clear intentions.

“When they don’t have the ball they want it straight back and they swarm you. That’s Luis [Enrique]. Wherever he goes he plays in the same way.”

Mikel Arteta on facing PSG

19:06 , Mike Jones

The Arsenal coach said: “Everybody is looking forward to this. The format is a bit different this season, and the opposition we’re facing is probably at the highest level in European football. It’s a great opportunity.”

Arsenal and Man City’s heated rivalry has just reached a new level of tension

19:00 , Mike Jones

Mikel Arteta eventually felt he had to speak, specifically in order to quieten things down. You couldn’t have a clearer indication of how the Manchester City-Arsenal tensions had reached a peak, after all, than Pep Guardiola himself willingly bringing up the “115 charges”.

Some City officials had previously bristled at the media or anyone else mentioning the prospect of the club being punished, and yet here was their most important football figure putting it front and centre of the week’s biggest story.

That showed how affected Guardiola had been by Arteta’s admittedly open-ended comments from Tuesday. The Arsenal manager had spoken about how he has “all the information” on City, having worked at the club for almost four years. Arteta was actually talking about gamesmanship, given all the criticism of his own team over “dark arts”, but the way it was said could have easily been portrayed as talking about the hearing.

Guardiola evidently felt that way.

Arsenal and Man City’s heated rivalry has just reached a new level of tension

Arsenal team changes

18:54 , Mike Jones

Mikel Arteta has named an unchanged line-up to the Arsenal team that defeated Leicester City at the weekend. Riccardo Calafiori starts at left-back with Jurrien Timber favoured on the right hand side.

Leandro Trossard starts up top and Gabriel Martinelli is the first choice on the left wing.

Can this line-up defeat Paris Saint-Germain tonight? Kick off is a touch over an hour away.

Arsenal vs PSG line-ups

18:48 , Mike Jones

Arsenal XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Rice, Partey; Saka, Havertz, Martinelli; Trossard

PSG XI: Donnarumma; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Nuno Mendes; Zaire-Emery, Vitinha, Joao Neves; Doue, Lee Kang-In, Barcola

Arteta on Ronaldinho

18:43 , Mike Jones

When speaking about his time playing for PSG, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta revealed that he used to share a room with Brazilian great Ronaldinho.

“We were roommates for a year-and-a-half,” said Arteta of the player widely considered to be among the best of all time. “He was great, so much energy and so much fun.

“He was a huge talent. He’s the only player that I have seen in history that could transform, by himself, two clubs. He did it in Paris, he transformed them. He went to Barcelona in one of their worst moments and transformed them too.

“He had an aura, an energy, a smile on his face. It was impossible to be next to him and be in a bad mood. And I had never seen a talent like it. In training, in every drill, it was like, ‘How is this possible?’ It was unbelievable to play with him.”

PSG ‘protected me like a son’, says Arteta

18:37 , Mike Jones

Mikel Arteta said Paris St Germain “protected him like a son” on the eve of his reunion with the side which handed him his professional debut.

Arteta was just a teenager when he was sent by Barcelona to the French club on loan, and on Tuesday night he will welcome them to the Emirates for the opening home clash of Arsenal’s Champions League campaign, with Luis Enrique – his former Barcelona team-mate – in the opposing dugout.

“We were in Barcelona when we got the phone call that ‘you need to pack your bags and fly to Paris, now,’” said Arteta of his move to PSG in 2001.

“I was 18 years old, had not played any professional football and you look at those names at the club and you think, ‘are they sure?’ But you get there and Luis Fernandez was the manager and he was the one that believed in me.

“That is what you need, someone to give you the chance and to be surrounded by the right individuals, that I was very lucky to have.

“They protected me like a son. It was the perfect environment for me, to give me the chance, to see what I was capable of doing. It was an amazing experience. I wanted to stay there but I was owned by Barcelona and they couldn’t find an agreement.”

Mikel Arteta’s unique PSG past will influence Arsenal’s Champions League clash

18:30 , Mike Jones

It was an approach that Mikel Arteta almost immediately dismissed, although there was a moment’s consideration due to a previous connection. In the summer of 2023, Paris Saint-Germain investigated whether the Basque would be interested in succeeding Christophe Galtier as coach. He’d already made Arsenal a competitive team again, and that’s one reason why he was never going to go. Arteta ultimately wants to be the first manager to bring the London club to glory in the Champions League, the competition in which they host PSG on Tuesday.

The former midfielder was actually on loan at PSG when they won their last European trophy, if it can be even called that, given it was the 2001 Intertoto Cup. That now defunct qualification competition was shared with Aston Villa and Troyes, with Arteta taking his place on the bench for an away-goal win against Roberto Baggio’s Brescia. This was the idiosyncratic nature of PSG at the time, that also represented a key juncture on the 42-year-old’s circuitous route to Arsenal.

Mikel Arteta’s unique PSG past will influence Arsenal’s Champions League clash

The message Neymar reportedly sent Real Madrid stars on why Kylian Mbappe is ‘hell’ to play with

18:24 , Karl Matchett

Kylian Mbappe has finally hit his stride in LaLiga with three goals from his last two outings, albeit two from the penalty spot, as his Real Madrid career lifts off.

The Frenchman was a high-profile free transfer move this past summer, bringing an end to a long-lasting saga over when he would leave his former club, Paris Saint-Germain, and join Los Blancos in Spain.

Neymar formed part of an all-star attack line at PSG with Mbappe, while Lionel Messi was also at the club at the time - but Neymar has apparently told the current contingent of Brazilian stars at the Santiago Bernabeu that it was “hell” to play alongside the younger member of that contingent.

“The Brazilians [at Real Madrid] are friends with Neymar,” Cyril Hanouna said to Europe 1, per the Mirror. “It has always been a war between Neymar and Mbappe. Neymar has sent a [note] about Mbappe to the Brazilians, telling them that it was catastrophic, that it was hell.”

Arsenal seeking first win as PSG visit

18:18 , Mike Jones

After a disappointing goalless draw away to Atalanta in their Champions League opener – in which David Raya made a fine save to keep out Mateo Retegui’s penalty – Mikel Arteta’s side face another big challenge with the ambitious Paris St Germain coming to north London.

Arsenal, still unbeaten this season, can take some encouragement from PSG’s miserable European record away to English sides – last season’s 4-1 defeat at Newcastle was their third-straight loss away to Premier League opposition in the Champions League.

Timber adds voice to concerns over football schedule

18:12 , Mike Jones

“To be honest, I totally agree with them,” said Jurrien Timber ahead of Arsenal’s fixture against PSG, which will be their sixth in 17 days. “It’s a big topic at the moment in dressing rooms, not only at City and Liverpool, but also our dressing room.

“I honestly think it’s a dangerous thing. Last week we played City, and they played again two days later, and that’s too much. I understand why players are complaining.

“It’s a really good point. The players are speaking right now and let their voices be heard. It doesn’t look like it’s getting any less (busy) at the moment.

“We’re just trying to be there every game to give our best, but it gets hard when the games keep coming and coming. Especially in England without having a winter break, it’s really hard.

“I didn’t play last season, so I’m just enjoying playing right now – you won’t hear me complaining – but I totally understand what they’re saying.”

Jurrien Timber offers stark warning about ‘dangerous’ fixture calendar amid strike talk

18:05 , Mike Jones

Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber said he is in total agreement with Rodri, following the Manchester City star’s strike warning, and described the current fixture congestion as “dangerous”.

The Netherlands international, 23, who spent nine months out last season with a knee injury, also revealed the increased number of matches is a “big topic” in the Arsenal dressing room.

Jurrien Timber offers stark warning about dangerous fixture calendar amid strike talk

Arsenal vs PSG previous meetings

17:58 , Mike Jones

The two teams have met four times before with Arsenal the only side managing to secure a win. They triumphed in the 1993/94 European Cup Winners’ Cup semi-finals following a 1-1 in the French Capital. Kevin Campbell scored a seventh minute winner at Highbury to secure a 2-1 aggregate win.

More recently, the two sides played a couple of Champions League group games in the 2016/17 season. At the Parc des Princes, Alexis Sanchez equalised for the visitors after Edinson Cavani had scored just 44 seconds into the game.

Cavani then gave Unai Emery’s PSG an 18th-minute lead at the Emirates Stadium in the reverse fixture but Olivier Giroud’s penalty and a Marco Verratti own goal put Arsene Wenger’s team in front.

Another own goal, from Alex Iwobi with 13 minutes left, ensured it finished level at 2-2.

‘We need to play with courage’ says Timber

17:51 , Mike Jones

Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber says he and his teammates know they will need to ‘play with courage’ when they face PSG tonight in the Champions League.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of the game the defender said: “A lot of our players have played in big games, but of course the Champions League is a bit different. Obviously we need to play with a lot of courage and be who we are.

“I think they are still a really good team. They are really well coached and they have so many good players, world class players. I don’t think we will approach it differently, we just have to be prepared for tomorrow.”

Luis Enrique on Mikel Arteta

17:44 , Mike Jones

The Paris Saint-Germain coach spoke about his opposite number in his pre-match press conference saying: “I have already worked with Mikel Arteta.

“We were teammates at Barcelona for a season and I have great memories of him. I’m really looking forward to meeting him tomorrow, to being able to talk to him.

“He’s one of the best coaches around right now, and he has completely changed Arsenal. A great coach and a great person.”

Arsenal handed PSG boost after Ousmane Dembele omitted from squad for Champions League clash

17:37 , Mike Jones

Ousmane Dembele will miss Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League trip to Arsenal after being left out of Luis Enrique’s squad for the fixture after reportedly falling out with the Spanish manager.

Dembele allegedly clashed with Enrique in the wake of PSG’s Ligue 1 win over Rennes on Friday after the French forward had been substituted during the 3-1 win.

The 27-year-old had been in fine early-season form in the French capital, scoring four times in six league games to help fill the void left by Kylian Mbappe after his compatriot’s departure for Real Madrid.

Arsenal handed PSG boost after Ousmane Dembele omitted from squad

Arsenal vs PSG prediction

17:30 , Mike Jones

A lower-key battle than might be expected for such a high-profile encounter, due to the nature of this competition offering little jeopardy for big clubs failing to win.

With that said, both teams have the ability to score goals but might not have the edge to go on and way the game.

Arsenal 1-1 PSG.

Arsenal vs PSG predicted line-ups and latest odds

17:24 , Mike Jones

Here’s how wee see both teams lining up for tonight’s match based on their previous results and how both managers will look to outfox the other:

Arsenal XI: Raya, Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori, Partey, Rice, Saka, Trossard, Martinelli, Havertz

PSG XI: Safonov, Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Beraldo, Neves, Zaire-Emery, Ruiz, Muani, Kang-In, Barcola

As for latest odds, Arsenal are the surprisingly heavy favourites with a decent 7/2 price backing the French champions to triumph at the Emirates:

Arsenal 8/11

Draw 14/5

PSG 7/2

What is the early team news?

17:18 , Mike Jones

The Gunners will be without Mikel Merino and Martin Odegaard, as well as defenders Takehiro Tomiyasu, Oleksandr Zinchenko and potentially Ben White. The latter’s absence would mean Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori at full-back again, but otherwise they’re likely to go with the same faces as have been in the team recently.

PSG are missing a plethora of starters including Lucas Hernandez, Presnel Kimpembe, Goncalo Ramos and Ousmane Dembele, the latter after falling out with manager Luis Enrique. Nuno Mendes, Vintinha and goalkeeper Gigi Donnarumma are also all doubts, leaving a few holes for PSG to fill.

Where can I watch it?

17:13 , Mike Jones

Arsenal vs PSG is one of the Champions League matches that will be streamed live on Amazon Prime Video with coverage starting at 6.30pm.

If you’re not an Amazon Prime Video subscriber you can start a free 30-day trial herewhich will allow you to watch the game.

If you’re travelling abroad and want to watch major sporting events, you might need a VPN to unblock your streaming app. Our VPN round-up is here to help and includes deals on VPNs in the market. Viewers using a VPN need to make sure that they comply with any local regulations where they are, and also with the terms of their service provider.

We may earn commission from some of the links in this article, but we never allow this to influence our content. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.

When is Arsenal vs PSG?

17:07 , Mike Jones

The match kicks off at 8pm BST on Tuesday 1 October at the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal vs PSG

17:00 , Mike Jones

Arsenal will look to make it four points from two games in the Champions League in midweek, but they face arguably their toughest test of the new eight-match league stage when they host Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain.

Mikel Arteta’s team are third in the Premier League after four wins from six, though they’ve only won two of their last six in all competitions and needed injury-time goals to beat Leicester at the weekend.

In Europe last time out they drew 0-0 at Atalanta, while PSG beat Girona 1-0 thanks to a last-minute goalkeeping error. Domestically, the French side have five wins and a draw so far to already leave them top, albeit only on goal difference at this stage.

Arsenal face Shakhtar, Inter Milan and Sporting in their upcoming matches in this competition.

Good evening!

14:10 , Mike Jones

Welcome to The Independent’s coverage of tonight’s Champions League action as Arsenal host Paris Saint-Germain in a blockbuster clash at the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners drew 0-0 in their first outing when they took on last season’s Europa League winners Atalanta and face another difficult contest against the French champions tonight.

Mikel Arteta will be confident his side can pull off a victory though and should Arsenal collect three points it will be a sign that they can achieve big things in this competition.

We’ll have all the team news, line-ups and updates throughout the evening so stick with us as we build up to kick off at 8pm.