Paris Saint-Germain travel to face Barcelona without four key players | OneFootball

The final that never was as it has been talked about in Spain between Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain will take place on Wednesday night at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys up Montjuic. The Blaugrana were minutes away from securing a place in the Champions League final last season, which would have pitted them against PSG.

However some of the shine has been removed from the tie, with a number of star names set to be absent from the clash. Barcelona themselves are uncertain of the fitness of Alejandro Balde, and will be without Raphinha, Fermin Lopez and Joan Garcia.

PSG travel without four key names

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Already it was known that Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele would not be facing off against runner-up Lamine Yamal due to a hamstring injury suffered at the start of the month. Desire Doue also picked up an injury on France duty, and he has not recovered in time either, reducing Luis Enrique’s options up front, which have been further compounded by the addition of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, to their injury list. The Georgian’s absence means that PSG will be without their entire starting front three from the final.

Meanwhile captain Marquinhos will also miss the game. He suffered an injury issue last week, and has been left out having not fully recovered.

Luis Enrique receives good news on midfield

However they may well be able to field their starting midfield from the final. Fabian Ruiz and Joao Neves were both left out against Auxerre in Friday’s meeting as a precautionary measure, but both have traveled with the French champions. Meanwhile Vitinha started against Auxerre, but was withdrawn in the first half, due to muscle discomfort, but has also been deemed fit.

PSG alternatives up front

Even without three star forwards, the former Barcelona manager will be able to field a strong attack. Goncalo Ramos will be the favourite to play through the middle, with Bradley Barcola a strong option out wide. Lee Kang-In is then the next most senior option to come into the line-up in a front three.