On the eve of the clash against FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain is expected to field a rejuvenated and bold team. According to RMC Sport, Vitinha (25) will not start the match. Fabian Ruiz, 29, and Joao Neves (21) are expected to return to the starting 11.
Chevalier – Hakimi, Zabarnyi, Pacho, Mendes – Neves, Zaire-Emery, Ruiz – Lee, Mayulu, Barcola.
PSG’s probable lineup against Barça sounds like a forced patchwork, dictated by absences rather than an ideal game plan. With key players missing, the coach is forced to patch up the gaps rather than deploy his “best XI.” In this scenario, Fabián Ruiz remains one of the key midfield players, but he will be surrounded by young players with little experience.
João Neves will be thrust into the battle to balance the midfield, while Warren Zaïre-Emery (19) will have to assume more creative responsibility despite his age. He should once again have a chance to rediscover his former fire.
All this comes at the cost of significant defensive sacrifices: the Zabarnyi/Pacho partnership lacks experience in major European matches, which exposes Paris to constant attacks. Up front, Bradley Barcola and Senny Mayulu are both thrust into the uncomfortable role of a key player. Barcola, as a winger or mobile striker, will have to compensate for the lack of depth. Mayulu, although often interesting, will have to play a great match, he has an important opportunity to score points.
