PSG Faces Saint-Étienne Without Captain Marquinhos
Paris Saint-germain will be without their captain, Marquinhos, for their Ligue 1 clash against saint-Étienne on Sunday evening. The Brazilian defender has been experiencing discomfort in his adductor muscle since the Champions Trophy and will be sidelined as a precautionary measure. He participated in individual training on Saturday and will be rested for the match.
This absence forces PSG manager Luis enrique to make adjustments to his defensive lineup.lucas Beraldo, a left-footed defender, is the frontrunner to replace Marquinhos, having previously filled the role effectively against Lyon last month. Another option is Lucas Hernandez, who has been gradually recovering from a cruciate ligament injury sustained in May.
Hernandez, who has made substitute appearances against Lyon and Monaco, is regaining his fitness and could be in contention for a starting position.
Attacking Options for PSG
Following a productive training week in Qatar, Luis Enrique is expected to maintain a largely unchanged lineup for the Saint-Étienne encounter. More notable changes are anticipated for the Coupe de France round of 16 match against Espaly in three days.
Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes are expected to anchor the full-back positions, while the midfield trio that impressed against Monaco last week is likely to be retained, potentially leaving Fabian Ruiz on the bench.
The attacking lineup presents intriguing possibilities. Désiré Doué’s impressive form on the left wing makes him a near certainty. Ousmane Dembélé has also been performing well as a false nine, but the return of Gonçalo Ramos from injury could see him earn a starting berth.
In this scenario, Dembélé and Kang-in Lee would compete for the final attacking spot. Dembélé, who scored the winning goal against monaco, appears to have the edge, especially considering Bradley Barcola’s recent collision with a Monaco player, which resulted in a minor setback.Barcola, however, has recovered and is available for selection.
Predicted Lineup
Donnarumma – Hakimi (cap.), Beraldo, Pacho, Mendes – Zaïre-Emery, Vitinha, Neves – Dembélé, Ramos, Doué.
PSG’s Defensive Shuffle: An Interview with Thierry Henry
Today, we’re joined by Arsenal legend and football pundit thierry Henry to discuss PSG’s upcoming clash against Saint-Étienne and the latest news regarding Marquinhos’ absence. Henry, a master tactician himself, will shed light on how this defensive shakeup might affect the Parisian giants.
Welcome,Thierry.
Thierry Henry: Thanks for having me.
Let’s get right to it. PSG will be without their captain, Marquinhos, against Saint-Étienne.Losing a defender of his caliber is a blow for any team. How crucial a role does marquinhos play in PSG’s backline, and how do you think Luis Enrique will manage without him?
Thierry Henry: Marquinhos is the bedrock of PSG’s defense, a true leader on the pitch. He’s not just defensively solid; his ability to read the game and distribute the ball from the back is extraordinary. His absence will definately be felt.
Enrique has a decision to make now. Beraldo, who has performed admirably previously, seems like the leading candidate to replace him. Is Beraldo a suitable replacement, and does Enrique risk disrupting the already solid defensive partnership with Kimpembe out injured?
Thierry Henry: Beraldo is a promising young defender, and I’ve been impressed with his composure on the ball. He’s definitely capable, but it’s a tough ask to step into Marquinhos’ shoes.
There’s also the option of Hernandez,who’s been gradually returning from injury. Do you think Enrique might consider him, despite the risk of rushing him back too soon?
Thierry Henry: Hernandez is a seasoned professional, and his experience could be invaluable in this situation. Though,you raise a valid point about rushing him back. Enrique needs to weigh the risks and benefits, taking Hernandez’s long-term fitness into account.
Looking at PSG’s attacking options,they seem spoilt for choice. Dembélé appears to have cemented his place as a false nine, with Ramos returning from injury.How do you see this attacking lineup evolving, considering Doué’s impressive form on the wing?
Thierry Henry: Dembélé’s adaptability in that central attacking role has been a revelation for PSG. He’s finding space and creating chances. ramos’ return adds another dimension,a proven goalscorer.
I think the competition for that third attacking spot is going to be fascinating. Doué’s pace and dribbling skills are a real weapon.Ultimately, Enrique will choose the lineup he believes best suits the opponent and the tactical approach he wants to employ.
Do you think the absence of Marquinhos could weaken PSG’s defensive stability, making this match a tougher challenge than anticipated?
Thierry Henry: Without a doubt, Marquinhos’ absence is a blow. Saint-Étienne won’t be pushovers,they’ll sense an possibility to put pressure on PSG’s defense. It will be interesting to see how Enrique sets up his team tactically to compensate for this loss.
This is PSG’s chance to demonstrate their squad depth and resilience. They have enough talent on the bench to overcome this challenge, but it won’t be a walk in the park.
Thank you for yoru insightful analysis, Thierry. I think we’re all eagerly awaiting this match.
Readers, what are your thoughts? Can PSG overcome this defensive setback? Share your predictions in the comments below.
