This comprehensive preview delves into the upcoming UEFA Champions League fixture between Monaco and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) at Stade Louis II. The article outlines the significant challenges faced by Monaco due to a substantial injury crisis affecting several key players, including Takumi Minamino and Paul Pogba. In contrast, PSG appears to have a more favorable health report, with only a few players sidelined. This analysis also covers the recent performance trends of both teams, shedding light on their current standing in their respective leagues and their historical head-to-head encounters in European competitions. Anticipated starting lineups are provided, alongside details on broadcast availability for fans in the UK.
Monaco is currently grappling with a severe wave of injuries as they prepare for this critical European clash. Notably, Takumi Minamino and Mohammed Salisu are out due to cruciate ligament injuries, impacting the club's UEFA squad selection. Paul Pogba's rehabilitation from a calf problem has been challenging, with no clear timeline for his return, as acknowledged by Monaco CEO Thiago Scuro. Further setbacks include goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky (knee), defender Eric Dier (thigh), Kassoum Ouattara (calf), and Christian Mawissa (hamstring). Additionally, key players like Ansu Fati, Lamine Camara, and Maghnes Akliouche are facing late fitness tests following muscular or impact issues sustained in their recent 3–1 victory over Nantes. Despite these widespread injuries, January signing Simon Adingra, who impressed with two goals against Nantes, is expected to lead the attack. Aleksandr Golovin is also available, as his recent domestic red card does not apply to European matches.
On the other side, PSG enters the match with a comparatively shorter list of absent players. Young midfielder Quentin Ndjantou is recovering from thigh surgery, Fabian Ruiz is sidelined with a left-knee injury, and Senny Mayulu is also ruled out. However, Joao Neves and Ousmane Dembele, who experienced minor issues in their recent 3–1 defeat to Rennes, are anticipated to be fit for the trip to Monaco. Dembele had previously voiced concerns about individualism within the team following the Rennes loss, emphasizing the need for collective play. Joao Neves has since reassured fans and media that the team's morale remains high, highlighting that Dembele's comments were intended to foster teamwork and that the squad is confident and ready for the upcoming challenge.
Both teams have displayed mixed results in their recent outings. Monaco's form includes a 3–1 home win against Nantes, a goalless draw with Nice, a 3–1 loss to Strasbourg, a dominant 4–0 victory over Rennes, and another goalless draw with Juventus. These results place Monaco eighth in Ligue 1. However, their home record in the Champions League has been strong, remaining unbeaten in four games this season (one win, three draws) and maintaining clean sheets in their last three at Stade Louis II. PSG, on the other hand, comes off a disappointing 1–3 defeat against Rennes. They currently sit second in the league table with 51 points from 22 matches, just one point behind league leaders Lens. This upcoming match marks their first European encounter, with their rivalry historically limited to domestic competitions.
The projected starting lineups for this highly anticipated match are as follows: Monaco is expected to feature Kohn in goal, with a defensive line of Vanderson, Teze, Kehrer, and Henrique. The midfield will likely comprise Zakaria and Coulibaly, supporting an attacking quartet of Fati, Golovin, and Adingra, with Balogun leading the line. For PSG, Safonov is anticipated to start in goal, protected by Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, and Mendes. Zaire-Emery, Vitinha, and Neves are slated for the midfield, while Doue, Dembele, and Kvaratskhelia will form the attacking trio. Fans in the UK can catch the live action on TNT Sports 1, setting the stage for what promises to be a compelling encounter.
As Monaco and PSG prepare to face off in the UEFA Champions League, the contrast in their current situations adds an intriguing layer to this all-French battle. Monaco's depth will be tested as they contend with a growing injury list, while PSG aims to leverage its relatively healthier squad and recent domestic form. The match at Stade Louis II will not only be a test of tactical prowess but also a measure of resilience for Monaco and collective spirit for PSG, with both teams eager to advance in Europe's most prestigious club competition.