Barcelona will aim to secure their third consecutive Champions League victory when they face Paris Saint-Germain in France on Tuesday, despite a defensive injury crisis that has disrupted manager Hansi Flick’s plans. The La Liga leaders have started their European campaign with two wins and are eager to maintain their perfect record against the two-time defending champions.
Flick must cope without Eric Garcia, Jules Kounde, and Andreas Christensen, all sidelined due to injuries. Gerard Martín, who sustained a knock against Real Betis over the weekend, is expected to be fit enough to start alongside Pau Cubarsí in central defence. With Eric and Kounde unavailable, Xavi Espart is likely to shift to right-back, while João Cancelo will probably start at left-back ahead of Alejandro Balde.
The defensive situation had raised the possibility of deploying Rodri in the backline, but Martín’s availability means the Spain captain can remain in midfield. Alongside Rodri, Fermín López and Pedri are anticipated to complete the midfield trio, providing stability and creativity as Barcelona look to control the game.
Up front, Flick has the option to field his preferred attacking trio. Anthony Gordon is expected to return to the starting lineup after being rested at the weekend. Captain Raphinha, who came on for 20 minutes in the match against Betis after recovering from injury, should also start. Lamine Yamal continues to impress with his form and will be keen to maintain his momentum, especially since PSG’s left-back Nuno Mendes is out injured and will not be marking him.
The likely Barcelona starting eleven is Joan in goal, with Espart, Cubarsí, Martín, and Cancelo across the back. Fermín, Rodri, and Pedri will operate in midfield, supporting the front three of Yamal, Raphinha, and Gordon in a 4-3-3 formation.
This clash pits two teams with strong Champions League pedigrees against each other. PSG, as reigning runners-up and defending champions, present a formidable challenge on their home ground. Barcelona’s perfect start to the season and their desire to continue their winning streak in Europe adds extra weight to the encounter.
Flick’s selection decisions, particularly in defence, will draw close attention given the absences. The backline’s cohesion will be tested against PSG’s attacking threats, while Barcelona’s midfield will need to control the tempo and limit opportunities for their opponents.
The match offers a significant test for Barcelona’s squad depth and tactical flexibility, with the manager having to adapt to the injury setbacks while maintaining the team’s attacking ambitions. The latest confirmed lineup suggests a pragmatic approach, balancing defensive caution with offensive firepower as Barcelona seek to extend their winning run on the continental stage.
According to Yahoo Sports.
