This Sunday, Paris Saint-Germain face Rennes at the Roazhon Park in Matchday 1 of the 2026-2027 Ligue 1 season (kick-off at 8:45 PM, CET). Paris coach Luis Enrique must select his starting XI—having already finalized the squad for the match—while weighing up the opponent, upcoming fixtures, and suspension risks.
Predicting Luis Enrique’s choices remains difficult; he offers no hints to the media and is known for making bold decisions. He relies heavily on the competition for places during the week and analysis of the opposition. There is also the matter of managing playing time and player confidence, balancing the need for match practice against the need for rest—factors known only to him and his staff. Naturally, the immense versatility within the squad complicates the equation.
For instance, Désiré Doué and Maghnes Akliouche can play as a false nine, out wide, or in midfield—or they could just as easily start on the bench. On the bright side, this wealth of options makes it equally difficult for the opposition to anticipate the lineup.
Possible Lineup:
Kvaratskhelia – Dembélé – Akliouche
Ruiz – Zaïre-Emery – Doué
Digne – Pacho – Marquinhos – Hakimi
Safonov.
Substitutes: Chevalier, Longoni, Hernandez, Zabarnyi, Beraldo, Dro, Neves, Godts, Torres.
Out: Mayulu, Ndjantou, Barcola, Mbaye (choix), Mendes (suspension).
Potential yellow card suspension: None.
