The Paris Saint-Germain arrives in Budapest with momentum, seeking to replicate their 2025 triumph in Munich. After a shaky group stage finish—11th in Ligue 1—the Parisians elevated their game at the right time, overcoming Monaco (3-2, 2-2), Chelsea (5-2, 3-0), Liverpool (2-0, 2-0), and a tense semi-final against Bayern Munich (5-4 aggregate, 1-1 draw) to reach the final.

Arsenal, meanwhile, has been the picture of consistency this season. Top of the Premier League and unbeaten in their European campaign, the Gunners have navigated knockout stages with ease. Under Mikel Arteta, they arrive in Hungary with ambition and a point to prove, especially after last season’s semi-final heartbreak (1-0, 2-1 aggregate defeat).