PSG Make Major Decision Before Facing Barcelona in Champions League | OneFootball

PSG and Barcelona are set to face off on October 1 in the UEFA Champions League league phase, both entering the match on strong footing in the competition.

The reigning Champions League winners kicked off their campaign in style, thrashing Atalanta 4-0 with two goals in each half—even without Désiré Doué and Ousmane Dembélé.

Barcelona responded with a hard-fought 2-1 win at Newcastle United, powered by a brace from Marcus Rashford. Moreover, both teams are among the favorites to win the Champions League, and this clash could prove pivotal in shaping the league-phase standings.

PSG Could Have Key Player for Champions League Game

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RMC Sport reports that Khvicha Kvaratskhelia did not train with PSG on Monday. He’s available for the match against Barcelona, but the club won’t risk starting him. Furthermore, the outlet reveals that Fabián Ruiz, João Neves, and Vitinha will be included in PSG‘s squad to face Barcelona.

MORE PSG NEWS: PSG Get Injury Update on Key Players Before Barcelona Game

Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde has returned to full training with the group, according to SPORT’s Carlos Monfort, and appears likely to make the squad for the PSG clash—though he’s expected to start on the bench.

Meanwhile, before Wednesday’s Champions League clash, PSG received an indirect warning from Barcelona manager Hansi Flick, who plans to lean on his midfield duo, Pedri and Frenkie de Jong.

“They are exceptional footballers and are very well connected,” Flick said (h/t Marca). “They know how they want to play, they know each other… it’s fantastic to see this connection. With this duo, it’s harder to press us, and it gives us a lot of possession, creates more space, and that’s the most important thing. I’m very proud of the team.”