Hakimi – Foto: X.com/ Paris Saint-Germain
Paris Saint-Germain will face Barcelona on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, in the second round of the Champions League league phase, missing four key starters. Star forward Ousmane Dembélé, a Ballon d’Or winner, and Brazilian captain Marquinhos are out due to thigh injuries. Desiré Doué and Kvaratskhelia will also miss the match. The game, set for 4:00 p.m. Brasília time, will be broadcast live on ge.
The injuries occurred at different moments. Marquinhos felt discomfort in his left thigh during a 1-0 loss to Marseille on September 22. Dembélé was injured in France’s 2-0 win over Ukraine, playing just 34 minutes. The decision to field him sparked criticism from PSG’s management toward coach Didier Deschamps.
- Dembélé: thigh injury during France’s match.
- Marquinhos: left thigh discomfort after Marseille game.
- Doué: right calf pain in the same France match.
- Kvaratskhelia: rested after a knock to the leg against Auxerre.
Despite the absences, PSG welcomes back key players for the Camp Nou clash. Vitinha, Fabián Ruiz, and João Neves are confirmed in the squad.
⚔️ Le groupe parisien retenu pour disputer la 2e journée de la phase de ligue de @ChampionsLeague 👊#FCBPSG I #UCL pic.twitter.com/PZXKUZVA6q
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_inside) September 30, 2025
Injuries disrupt PSG’s planning
Manager Luis Enrique faces challenges in assembling the team. The absence of Dembélé and Marquinhos, central to attack and defense, limits tactical options. The coach must adjust the lineup to maintain balance against a direct group-stage rival.
Kvaratskhelia’s absence, as a precaution, is also concerning. The Georgian winger, with three goals and two assists this season, is a key offensive asset.
Returns provide relief
Vitinha’s return, after being tested in a 2-0 win over Auxerre, bolsters the midfield. The Portuguese midfielder will likely pair with Fabián Ruiz, back from suspension.
Young prospect João Neves, recovered from a muscle issue, is expected to see minutes. His energy could be vital against Barcelona’s dynamic midfield.
Impact of injuries on the season
Recent injuries highlight PSG’s squad vulnerabilities in crucial moments. Dembélé, with five Ligue 1 goals, is a cornerstone of the attack. Marquinhos, a leader on the pitch, anchors the defense with an 85% pass accuracy rate.
Doué’s absence, as he was gaining prominence, reduces attacking options. Kvaratskhelia’s precautionary rest raises concerns for upcoming matches.
The medical staff is working to recover the players before the Lyon clash next Sunday. At least two of the four are expected to be available.
Crucial Champions League match
The Barcelona game is pivotal for PSG’s Champions League ambitions. After a draw in their opener, a win is essential to solidify their group standing.
Recent history between the teams is balanced, with two wins each in the last five encounters. PSG aims to leverage its squad depth, despite absences, to surprise on the road.
Preparation for the showdown
Luis Enrique is likely to opt for a cautious setup, with three holding midfielders to counter Barcelona’s attack. Hakimi may play as an attacking wing-back to exploit gaps in the opposition’s defense.
The Camp Nou will be packed, with around 90,000 fans expected. The hostile crowd will pose an additional challenge for PSG, which aims to maintain its unbeaten away record in the competition.
