Paris Saint-Germain v Barcelona: predicted line-ups for Champions League tie

Paris Saint-Germain host FC Barcelona at the Parc des Princes in one of the headline fixtures of the third matchday of the Champions League league phase.

The two European heavyweights meet with both aiming to make a significant statement early in the competition, and there are several selection issues to resolve before kick-off.

Paris Saint-Germain

Paris Saint-Germain are waiting on the fitness of Nuno Mendes after he was affected by an injury at the weekend. Maghnes Akliouche is also considered doubtful.

The club’s medical team must additionally manage the continued absences of Senny Mayulu and Alessandro Longoni, who remain in the treatment phase of their recoveries.

Matvey Safonov is expected to start in goal, with Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Willian Pacho and Lucas Digne forming the defence.

Joao Neves, Vitinha and Fabian Ruiz are the likely midfield trio, while Desire Doue, Ousmane Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia are expected to lead the attack.

Paris Saint-Germain’s probable XI: Matvey Safonov; Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Willian Pacho, Lucas Digne; Joao Neves, Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz; Desire Doue, Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

FC Barcelona

FC Barcelona have been boosted by the return of Raphinha, who is available again after returning to competitive action.

There remains uncertainty over Gabriel Jesus, however, while Andreas Christensen and young forward Roony Bardghji will miss the trip to Paris.

Joan Garcia is expected to be selected in goal. Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi and Joao Cancelo are the predicted back four.

Pedri, Rodri and Fermin Lopez are set to operate in midfield, with Lamine Yamal, Raphinha and Anthony Gordon forming the attacking line.

FC Barcelona’s probable XI: Joan Garcia; Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, Joao Cancelo; Pedri, Rodri, Fermin Lopez; Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Anthony Gordon.

The match is the third Champions League league-phase fixture for both sides and will take place at the Parc des Princes, with team selections likely to depend on the final fitness assessments of the players carrying doubts.