One week before the Champions League final, Paris Saint-Germain is competing for this Saturday, another final, that of the Coupe de France against Reims. A less publicized meeting, of course, but that the men of Luis Enrique do not have to be overused. Especially since it is a question of continuing a victorious dynamic before the great European shock against Inter Milan. For this life -size rehearsal, the Spanish coach has chosen to align an almost type eleven … with an unexpected novelty.
Barcola rather than gifted: a strong choice
Luis Enrique has decided to shake up the offensive hierarchy by starting Bradley Barcola in place of Désiré Doué, yet very in sight in recent weeks. A change that could be strategic: Barcola offers more width and percussion, a useful profile against a low block like that of Reims. It remains to be seen whether this is a test or a real index for the continental final. This choice in any case testifies to a coach who does not hesitate to adjust his battle plan depending on the circumstances.
A typical PSG team … or almost
The rest of the team is close to the eleven that should start in Munich next week. In defense, Marquinhos finds his armband and his place as a holder alongside the solid Willian Pacho. The corridors are entrusted to the usual Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes. In the middle, Vitinha holds the post of sentry. Portuguese is at the heart of discussions around the transfer window, notably linked to Real Madrid, but it remains essential in the balance of the Parisian game. Alongside him, Fabian Ruiz and João Neves complete the trio.
Donnarumma was preferred to Safonov in the PSG cage.
Back to the cages
Notable fact: Gianluigi Donnarumma begins in goals. Matveï Safonov, holder during the previous rounds of the Coupe de France, gives way to Italian. An additional proof that Luis Enrique takes this final very seriously, while preparing his men for the high level context expected against Inter. It is therefore a solid, concentrated, and almost complete PSG which is about to compete in a new final.
A taste of Munich
Faced with an attractive team of Reims this season but far from being a favorite, PSG leaves with a clear advantage. The stake is twofold: lift a second national trophy this season, and avoid any disappointment or injury to one week from a capital European deadline. If the victory seems promised to Parisians, it will still be necessary to validate it on the field. One certainty: this final will serve as a tactical laboratory for Luis Enrique, determined to make a double blow.
