PSG Prepares for Saint-Étienne amidst Injury Concerns and Tactical Decisions
Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino faces a series of challenges as his team prepares to host Saint-Étienne on Saturday. The three-week gap between the Champions League clash against Real madrid and this ligue 1 encounter offers Pochettino valuable time to strategize, but key absences and tactical dilemmas loom large.
Following a disappointing 3-1 defeat against Nantes, Pochettino must navigate the absence of several key players. Marco Verratti remains suspended after accumulating three yellow cards in ten games, while Leandro Paredes continues to recover from an adductor injury that sidelined him against Nantes. Sergio Ramos is also unavailable due to a right calf problem.
These absences force Pochettino to rethink his midfield setup. Danilo, who impressed against Real Madrid, is expected to return, with Idrissa Gueye likely retaining his place despite the Nantes setback. The question remains whether Georginio Wijnaldum, who struggled at La Beaujoire, will be given another chance or if Ander Herrera, who hasn’t featured since January 23rd, will be called upon.
Pochettino also faces a decision in goal, with both Gianluigi Donnarumma and Keylor Navas vying for the starting position. Navas started against Nantes, but Donnarumma’s recent performances could sway Pochettino’s choice.
In defense, Achraf hakimi is expected to return to the right flank, while Marquinhos or Presnel Kimpembe could be rested to ensure freshness. Juan Bernat is highly likely to continue on the left, with nuno Mendes waiting in the wings.
Upfront, the attacking trio of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Neymar are poised to start, marking their final appearance together before Mbappé’s suspension for the trip to Nice. The Frenchman received his third yellow card in ten games during the Nantes match, ruling him out of the Nice fixture.
This match against Saint-Étienne presents a crucial opportunity for PSG to bounce back from their recent setback and solidify their position in Ligue 1. Despite the injury concerns and tactical uncertainties, Pochettino’s squad possesses the talent and depth to overcome these challenges and secure a vital victory.
PSG’s Midfield Puzzle: A Tactical Tug-of-War Ahead of Saint-Étienne Clash?
Welcome back, football fanatics! Today, I’m joined by former French international and midfield maestro, Emmanuel Petit, to dissect Paris Saint-Germain’s upcoming Ligue 1 encounter against Saint-etienne.
emmanuel, PSG are coming off a sobering 3-1 defeat against Nantes. Mauricio Pochettino faces quite a headache with several key players missing, including Verratti, paredes, and Ramos.This throws a real monkey wrench into his midfield plans, wouldn’t you say?
Emmanuel Petit: Absolutely, mark. Verratti, the engine of that midfield, is a colossal loss. Paredes, with his tenacity and defensive solidity, is another blow. Pochettino has some intriguing options, but finding the right balance without those two will be crucial.
Mark Johnson: Danilo impressed against Real Madrid. Will he be the midfield anchor,and who partners him?
Emmanuel Petit: Danilo is a naturally gifted footballer,but stepping into Verratti’s shoes is a tall order. I’d expect Gueye to retain his place, providing that defensive steel. Now, this is where it gets interesting. Wijnaldum struggled against Nantes, but can Pochettino afford to drop him? Ander Herrera, who hasn’t played as January, is a wildcard.It’s a real selection dilemma.
Mark Johnson: The goalkeeping situation is also a hot topic. Both Donnarumma and Navas have their strengths.Who gets the nod for you?
Emmanuel Petit: Tough call, Mark. Navas started against Nantes, but Donnarumma has looked sharper in recent appearances. I think this is a match where Pochettino might go with experience. Navas has that calming presence that could be valuable against a resolute Saint-Étienne side.
Mark Johnson: And about that attacking trio—Messi,mbappé,and Neymar—their last hurrah before Mbappé’s suspension. Do you anticipate a pressing need to make a statement after the disappointing Nantes result?
Emmanuel Petit: I think so, Mark.They need to remind everyone of their individual brilliance and their potential as a collective force. Mbappé’s suspension adds a layer of urgency. They’ll be eager to finish on a high note before he sits out. Saint-Étienne, though, won’t roll over easily. They’ll be fired up to frustrate PSG and spoil the party.
Mark Johnson: Absolutely,a proper test of PSG’s resilience. Thank you so much for your insights, Emmanuel. Always a pleasure.
Now, it’s your turn! What are your thoughts on PSG’s midfield conundrum? And do you think they have enough firepower to overcome Saint-Étienne after the Nantes setback? Let us know in the comments below!
