This Wednesday, during Matchday 8 of the Champions League group stage of the 2025-2026 season, Paris Saint-Germain (6th) faces Newcastle (7th) at the Parc des Princes (kick-off at 9 pm, CET). Ahead of this match, the press has been trying to predict the starting lineup that Parisian coach Luis Enrique will field.
Le Parisien (4-3-3) –
Barcola – Dembélé – Kvaratskhelia
Ruiz – Vitinha – Zaïre-Emery
Mendes – Pacho – Marquinhos – Hakimi
Chevalier .
L’Equipe (4-3-3) –
Barcola – Dembélé – Kvaratskhelia
Ruiz – Vitinha – Zaïre-Emery
Mendes – Pacho – Marquinhos – Hakimi
Chevalier
These are all perfectly plausible lineups, but as always, nothing is certain. Luis Enrique isn’t giving any instructions to the press, which is primarily focused on anticipating the outcome. It’s expected to be the strongest possible starting eleven, without any significant rotation. This rotation is mainly intended to ensure the key players are at their best for the evening.
However, this leaves several options open amidst the intense competition and versatility within the squad. The recent return of some key players is excellent news. There will be more surprises for the opposition, with the coach having various options. We’ll have to wait for the official lineup announcement (approximately an hour before kickoff) to be certain of the choices, and even then, some doubts may remain regarding certain positions.
The main question here is how well Achraf Hakimi, Fabian Ruiz or João Neves can start this match for their (hoped-for) return to the group.
