“I could say that the 10-12 teams that are aiming to win this competition do not have the same schedule at all. And we have inherited the most difficult one. But we are not going to use that as an excuse. We will fight in every game, without a doubt, and we will see the level we can show because it is a very balanced and very difficult competition.”
Luis Enrique did not mince his words when discussing Paris Saint-Germain’s ambitions in this new format of Champions League. And this new look campaign begins this Wednesday evening, with the reception of Girona at the Parc des Princes (kick-off at 9 p.m.).
2 saving returns for PSG
With which starting eleven? Luis Enrique records two excellent news with the returns to training of Vitinha and Warren Zaire-Emery. Two good surprises that should allow these strong links to have playing time this Wednesday. It remains to be seen whether the Portuguese and the young Frenchman can be aligned from the start, in a sector where Fabian Ruiz, in great form, is also applying for a starting place. Vitinha would have a head start on Zaire-Emery.
In goal, Safonov will start for the first time in an official competition. The Russian goalkeeper will replace Gianluigi Donnarumma, who has joined the infirmary. For the rest, Paris should present an attractive team. Hakimi and Nuno Mendes are expected to surround a central hinge Marquinhos-Pacho. Joao Neves should also start, as well as the trio Dembélé-Asensio-Barcola, called to continue on the front of the attack.
The expected line-up for PSG : Safonov – Hakimi, Marquinhos (c), Pacho, Nuno Mendes – João Neves, Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz – Dembélé, Asensio, Barcola.
