Syed Talib
Updated on: October 15, 2024 3:35 am GMT
In a tense week leading up to a major clash, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) might be missing a whopping six players as they prepare to face Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League. The stakes are high, and every player counts in this pivotal match.
Injury Woes for PSG
The list of injuries has raised concerns for PSG’s coach as his team heads into the matchup. Key players are struggling to recover from various injuries:
- Desire Doue suffered an ankle injury during a recent match against Stade de Reims. He’s officially ruled out for the upcoming game against Arsenal and remains uncertain for next week.
- Vitinha, out due to a foot injury sustained during the international break, is also expected to miss the clash.
- Nuno Mendes is battling a virus but is anticipated to return.
- Marco Asensio is still recovering from his injury and remains a doubt.
- Goncalo Ramos (ankle injury), Lucas Hernandez (ACL injury), and Presnel Kimpembe (Achilles injury) are confirmed absentees for the match.
Despite these setbacks, Gianluigi Donnarumma, who missed the last match, is expected to return to the lineup. If he is fit to play and with several substitutes stepping in, PSG might field a lineup like this:
- Gianluigi Donnarumma
- Warren Zaire-Emery
- Marquinhos
- Willian Pacho
- Lucas Beraldo
- Fabian Ruiz
- Joao Neves
- Kang-in Lee
- Randal Kolo Muani
- Bradley Barcola
- Ousmane Dembele
Arsenal’s Tactical Challenges
PSG will need more than just a strong lineup; they must be wary of Arsenal’s tactics. Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane criticized Arsenal’s recent playing style, especially in a game where they led Manchester City 2-1 but ended up only managing one shot in the second half. He stated,
“When they won the ball back…try and look after it and try and get up the pitch… This is Arsenal we’re talking about – not a Championship team.”
Keane believes Arsenal’s approach could mirror tactics usually associated with smaller clubs, especially if they attempt to protect a lead.
The Stakes for PSG
PSG requires points from this match after a scoreless draw against Atalanta. The squad knows that a victory against Arsenal would not only boost their standing in the group but also solidify their position as top contenders in Europe. If they catch Arsenal in a defensive mindset, opportunities may open up for them.
Conclusion
As PSG gets ready to play against Arsenal, there’s a lot of talk about injured players and new game plans, which could really make a difference. Arsenal is also under pressure because of how they’ve played recently. For PSG, adjusting their strategy and taking advantage of Arsenal’s defense might be the secret to winning. This match at the Emirates Stadium is going to be exciting and important for both teams as they try to do well in the Champions League. Can PSG handle their injury problems and win against a careful Arsenal? We’ll just have to wait and see!
