Press round-up: PSG v Monaco clash, Safonov and Kvaratskhelia | OneFootball

This Friday, March 6, the French press (on the sporting side) focused on Paris Saint-Germain as they host AS Monaco tonight at 8:45 pm at the Parc des Princes (broadcast on Ligue1+ and beIN SPORTS) for the opening of the 25th matchday of Ligue 1 2025-2026. It's a clash against the 7th-placed team, who were faced in the Champions League playoffs, before playing the first leg of the round of 16 next Wednesday against Chelsea. There is also goalkeeper Matvey Safonov (27 years old) and forward Khivcha Kvaratskhelia (25 years old).

Le Parisien –

L’Equipe –

A big match awaits the Parisians; Monaco has shown both in Ligue 1 and the Champions League that they have the assets to pose real problems. PSG has been warned—they must be up to the task in terms of intensity and efficiency if they want to win. We have seen that they can dominate the game, but there is no room for ease or relaxation.

So much the better; there may be no better “preparation” for the first leg of the round of 16 against Chelsea. A “similar” team that will not allow for half-hearted duels or play that lacks rhythm and precision. Of course, there is also some concern about an aggressiveness that could lead to cards and leave marks on the Parisian side. But that’s part of the challenge. One of the answers is still in the game itself, by avoiding very tough physical duels.

As for Safonov, his somewhat special profile has already been presented several times. He is a chess player (a mandatory discipline during training at Krasnodar) with a strong character and high ambitions. He is often seen very calm after great performances; he never gets carried away. Nor does he get “overwhelmed” by an event. This will need to be confirmed again. But he has already proven a certain strength by fighting to earn the number 1 spot.

Finally, we have already seen some great things from Kvaratskhelia. But also a degree of inconsistency, with some performances that are a bit too messy or lack impact. Playing on the right doesn’t always help him. He can do it, but he seems much less lively. He appears more “by the book,” less free in his movements. The Georgian can also sometimes force his shots a bit; there is a balance to be found in his choices. However, there is no need to worry. He is a talented and combative player who is progressing.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.