This Tuesday, during Matchday 7 of the 2025-2026 Champions League group stage, Paris Saint-Germain (3rd) faces Sporting Lisbon (14th) at the Estádio José Alvalade (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) –
Kvaratskhelia – Dembélé – Doué
Ruiz – Vitinha – Zaïre-Emery
Mendes – Pacho – Marquinhos – Zabarnyi
Chevalier.
L’Équipe (4-3-3) –
Kvaratskhelia – Dembélé – Doué
Ruiz – Vitinha – Zaïre-Emery
Mendes – Pacho – Marquinhos – Zabarnyi
Chevalier.
Any team is possible, though nothing is certain since Luis Enrique doesn’t speak to the media and always knows how to surprise. At least, that’s the case for some choices, as a starting eleven is emerging for the Champions League.
However, the competition is fierce, versatility is key, and analyzing the opponent is also important. Therefore, there could be some changes. But, unlike other matches, there’s not really any need to consider squad rotation. This is more about ensuring the team is at its best for European nights.
Perhaps Warren Zaïre-Emery will indeed move back into midfield to compensate for João Neves’ absence, with Ilya Zabarnyi playing on the right wing. This freeing up of Nuno Mendes meant Ukraine remained with a three-man defense, even though Zaïre-Emery also had some attacking freedom. This worked well in the second half against Lille. But this isn’t the final step towards a miracle solution. For example, Désiré Doué could be in midfield and Bradley Barcola in attack, with Zaïre-Emery once again playing on the right wing.
We’ll have to wait for the official announcement, about an hour before the match, to see what this means for Luis Enrique regarding this game.
