Paris Saint-Germain arrive at the weekend with momentum on their side. However, Luis Enrique must once again juggle injuries to key players.
The Ligue 1 champions bounced back after defeat to Marseille with two big results. They stunned Barcelona 2-1 in the Champions League and then brushed aside Auxerre.
So, confidence is still high. But the trip to Lille could test PSG’s depth. The Parisians have not lost back-to-back away games in Ligue 1 since January 2023.
Therefore, they will want to avoid an unwanted record. PSG also failed to score in two consecutive away league matches back in 2022. They cannot afford a repeat this weekend.
At the same time, the defensive numbers are encouraging. PSG have kept four clean sheets in six league games, with only Lyon recording more in Europe’s top five leagues.
However, the injury list makes Enrique’s job harder. Ousmane Dembele is unlikely to feature due to a hamstring problem. Joao Neves has suffered the same issue.
Also, Desire Doue is nursing a calf concern, while Marquinhos is sidelined with a leg injury. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia also missed the Champions League win with a thigh complaint.
Therefore, Enrique will lean on the players who delivered against Auxerre. Illia Zabarnyi and Lucas Beraldo both scored in that victory. They should start in central defence.
Behind them, former Lille goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier will be eager to impress against his old club. He already leads Ligue 1 with four clean sheets this season.
Achraf Hakimi and Lucas Hernandez should occupy the full-back roles. Together, they will aim to contain Lille’s wide threats.
In midfield, Lee Kang-in and Vitinha are likely starters, with Mayulu offering energy and balance. This trio provides technical quality and defensive cover.
Further forward, Enrique will look to blend pace and power. Bradley Barcola and Gonçalo Ramos should start in attack, supported by Mbaye.
PSG have dominated Lille in recent meetings. However, with so many injuries, Enrique will demand focus to keep their title charge on track.
PSG predicted lineup vs Lille XI (4-3-3): Chevalier; Hakimi, Zabarnyi, Beraldo, Hernandez; Kang-in, Vitinha, Mayulu; Mbaye, Ramos, Barcola.
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