Monaco Face Critical Clash at Rennes as PSG Wait in Wings
AS Monaco travel to Rennes on Saturday in a pivotal Ligue 1 fixture that could have major implications for the title race. With only two matchdays remaining, a slip-up by Monaco could hand Paris Saint-Germain the 2013-14 Ligue 1 crown — provided the Parisians win their own match on Sunday against Lyon.
Claudio Ranieri’s side currently trail PSG by a significant margin, and anything less than a win in Brittany could mathematically confirm the title for Laurent Blanc’s men, who are poised to secure back-to-back championships.
Ranieri has named a 22-man squad for the potentially decisive trip to Roazhon Park, including the return of defender Layvin Kurzawa, who has been sidelined for the past four matches due to a thigh injury. His inclusion offers a boost to Monaco’s defensive options, which already feature veterans such as Eric Abidal and Ricardo Carvalho.
Also in the squad are midfield mainstays Joao Moutinho and Jeremy Toulalan, as well as attacking talents James Rodriguez and Dimitar Berbatov, who will be expected to carry the offensive threat. Teenage forward Anthony Martial also earns a spot, continuing his development in the senior setup.
The match presents a stern test for Monaco, who must maintain focus despite the looming shadow of PSG’s potential coronation. Rennes, meanwhile, will be keen to finish their season on a high note in front of home supporters.
Monaco Squad to Face Rennes:
Goalkeepers: Roma, Romero, Subasic
Defenders: Abdennour, Abidal, Carvalho, Fabinho, Isimat-Mirin, Kurzawa, Raggi
Midfielders: Dirar, Ferreira-Carrasco, Kondogbia, Moutinho, Obbadi, Ocampos, Rodriguez, Toulalan
Forwards: Berbatov, Germain, Martial, Rivière
Kick-off is set for Saturday evening, with all eyes on how Monaco respond under pressure. PSG, meanwhile, will wait until Sunday for their clash with Lyon, knowing they could be crowned champions depending on how results unfold over the weekend.
