The Parc des Princes is getting ready to vibrate for a gala poster. This Tuesday evening, Paris Saint-Germain, leader of its group, hosts Bayern Munich for a duel at the top of the Champions League. For this European meeting, Luis Enrique has an almost complete squad and should field a very competitive team. However, a few hours before kick-off, some important information filtered through: one of the pillars of the Parisian attack, usually one of the first names ticked on the match sheet, should start the match on the bench.
A poker move by Luis Enrique
The player in question is Ousmane Dembélé. The right winger, reigning Ballon d’Or, would not be lined up from the start. In question, a slight discomfort in the ischio of the right thigh felt during the last matches. Although he trained normally, the Parisian staff did not want to take absolutely any risks. Luis Enrique was very clear at a press conference:
“No risks with any player will be taken.”
The decision is therefore above all a precautionary measure for an essential player, but whose physical condition remains under surveillance.
This choice, if confirmed, is anything but trivial. It demonstrates the Spanish coach’s desire to manage his squad over the long term, prioritizing the health of his key men. This expected absence at the start of the match opens the door to the start of young Senny Mayulu, who would have a golden opportunity to show himself at the highest level. Aligned alongside Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Bradley Barcola, he will have the difficult task of making one of the best players in the world forget, at least for half-time.
A weapon for the second half?
The absence of Dembélé at kick-off will inevitably change the appearance of the Parisian attack. Without its percussion and dribbling ability, PSG will have to find other solutions to destabilize the Bavarian block. It’s a bold bet on the part of Luis Enrique, who shows great confidence in the depth of his bench and in the adaptability of his collective. The surprise could be total for Bayern, who undoubtedly expected to have to manage the outbursts of the French number 10 from the first minutes.
Dembélé’s evening will not, however, be exclusively on the bench. The Parisian coach himself confirmed it, “he’s going to play”. His entry during the match, with his freshness and speed, could turn into a formidable weapon against a defense which will have already fought for an hour. Perhaps this is where Luis Enrique’s real plan lies: to use his best asset as a luxury joker to swing the match.
