Paris Saint-Germain is set to kick off the eighth round of Ligue 1 this evening at the Parc des Princes. Currently at the top of the standings, the reigning champions of France are hosting Strasbourg in a crucial match. With only a one-point lead over rivals Olympique de Marseille, Strasbourg, and OL, the pressure is on for PSG to maintain their position as league leaders.
In this matchup, coach Luis Enrique will again be without several key players. Ousmane Dembélé, Fabian Ruiz, João Neves, and Marquinhos are all on the injury list. While Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Désiré Doué have returned to fitness, it is unlikely either will start the match. To improve their chances against the impressive Strasbourg squad, Enrique is expected to implement significant rotations to rest those who have been heavily utilized during the international break.
The anticipated changes for PSG involve several new faces. Goalkeeper Chevalier will take the net, while Warren Zaïre-Emery is projected to step in as a right-back. The central defense should feature Illia Zabarnyi and Lucas Beraldo, with Lucas Hernandez replacing Nuno Mendes on the left flank. In midfield, the absences of João Neves and Fabian Ruiz may allow Senny Mayulu and Kang-in Lee to shine. Up front, Ibrahim Mbaye and Bradley Barcola are set to flank Gonçalo Ramos.
On the opposing side, coach Liam Rosenior is expected to field a 4-5-1 formation with Mike Penders as goalkeeper. Defensively, Guéla Doué, Lucas Högsberg, Ismaël Doukouré, and Ben Chilwell will comprise the back four. The midfield will be anchored by the duo of Samir El-Mourabet and Valentin Barco, with Julio Enciso central and Abdul Ouattara and Daniel Moreira on the wings. Joaquin Panichelli is anticipated to lead the line as the lone striker.
This match promises to be a thrilling contest as both teams seek to assert their dominance in Ligue 1. PSG’s depth will be tested, but the opportunity for emerging players to make an impact could be a silver lining in tonight’s clash.