Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy has sounded a warning for Arsenal ahead of the Champions League final, describing Paris Saint-Germain’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as the finest winger currently playing.
Murphy, who also represented Fulham during his playing days, expects Arsenal to deploy Cristhian Mosquera at right-back if Jurrien Timber is not fully fit for the clash. Mosquera, a natural center-half, may find it tough against the Georgian international.
Speaking to talkSPORT, Murphy acknowledged the challenge: “It doesn’t bear thinking about, does it?” regarding the prospect of facing Kvaratskhelia. He added that Mosquera is a defender with pace who can play at right-back, position himself well, and compete one-on-one. “It’s not the end of the world, but it’s not ideal,” Murphy said.
“He is currently the best winger in the world. He has incredible physicality and strength, combined with a sharp football brain: he knows when to release the ball quickly and when to hold onto it, and he can go past players.” Murphy also highlighted the Georgian’s ability to play on either flank, noting PSG’s versatility with Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue also able to switch sides. “It’s a massive test for Arsenal; they will need an outstanding performance to win on the night,” he concluded.