PSG Faces Growing Injury Concerns Ahead of Barcelona Clash

Paris Saint-Germain secured a 2-0 victory against Auxerre on Saturday, though their list of injured players has expanded as they prepare for their upcoming Champions League match against Barcelona.

Key Players Injured

Midfielder Vitinha left the match shortly before halftime after assisting on the opening goal, while Georgian winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia was substituted during the break due to a suspected thigh injury.

PSG is set to visit Barcelona this Wednesday for the second round of the Champions League group stage.

Additional Injury Setbacks

The team was already dealing with the absence of captain Marquinhos in central defense, as well as Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé, fellow forward Désiré Doué, and midfielder João Neves, all sidelined due to injuries.

PSG head coach Luis Enrique commented on the situation: “Unfortunately, I can’t provide specifics right now. We will have to wait for the medical staff to inform us tomorrow or the day after regarding the nature of the injuries.”

He emphasized the need for a positive mindset: “It’s important to manage this situation effectively. Other teams are also experiencing similar injury issues due to the demanding schedule.”

Match Highlights

Both goals for PSG came from their central defenders. Illia Zabarnyi found the net in the 33rd minute by deftly finishing a cross from Vitinha, marking his first goal since his transfer from Bournemouth earlier this season. Vitinha then left the field shortly afterward.

In the 55th minute, Lucas Beraldo extended PSG’s lead to 2-0 with a header from Senny Mayulu’s cross.

Following this victory, PSG now has 15 points from six matches. Marseille, Monaco, Lyon, and Strasbourg are all close behind with 12 points each, differentiated only by goal difference. Lyon has the opportunity to join PSG at the top if they win their match against Lille on Sunday.