AS Monaco’s top-of-the-table showdown with Paris Saint-Germain has been dealt a major setback, with captain Denis Zakaria ruled out due to injury.
The Swiss-born Congolese midfielder, who had already missed key matches against Toulouse, Arsenal, and Stade de Reims after a hamstring strain, had been hopeful of making his return against PSG.
Monaco head coach Adi Hütter had hinted at a potential recovery, suggesting Zakaria might feature in the midweek clash at Stade Louis II. However, after a final assessment on Tuesday, the club confirmed the captain would not be part of the squad.
This news has cast a shadow over Zakaria’s season, as Hütter previously stated that if the midfielder wasn’t fit to face PSG, he wouldn’t return until 2024. This means the influential captain is also expected to miss Monaco’s upcoming Coupe de France match against L’Union Saint-Jean, leaving fans anxiously awaiting his recovery. Zakaria’s absence marks another blow to Monaco’s hopes as they look to stay at the top without their driving force.
