Franco-Algerian winger Maghnes Akliouche set to return for high-stake clash against PSG

AS Monaco winger Maghnes Akliouche is poised for a timely return ahead of his side’s crucial midweek showdown with Paris Saint-Germain after missing their weekend victory over RC Lens.

The 21-year-old attacker was absent on Saturday as Monaco secured a hard-fought 3-2 win against Lens, sitting out the encounter as a precaution. Akliouche had been nursing a minor hip problem sustained during the club’s 3-1 triumph over FC Nantes the previous weekend. He was forced off before half-time in that match, raising concerns about his availability for subsequent fixtures.

Despite the setback, the France international recovered sufficiently to feature in Monaco’s UEFA Champions League play-off clash against PSG. However, it became clear that he had not fully shaken off the discomfort, prompting the coaching staff to leave him out of the matchday squad entirely for the Lens encounter to avoid aggravating the injury.

Encouragingly for manager Adi Hütter, Akliouche returned to full training on Sunday and completed the session without any apparent issues. His participation in normal drills has boosted confidence within the camp that he will be fit enough to reclaim his place in the starting lineup.

Akliouche is expected to start Wednesday’s high-stakes meeting with PSG — a significant boost for Monaco as they prepare to face the reigning French champions in what promises to be another fiercely contested battle.