3 main talking points ahead of the derby between PSG and Paris FC in Ligue 1

Paris Saint-Germain will play their first game of 2026 as they prepare to face their city rivals Paris FC in Ligue 1. In their last game of 2025, the European Champions have claimed a convincing 4-0 away win over Vendée Fontenay in the Coupe de France.

Luis Enrique and his side who currently sit at the second spot of the league, just one point behind RC Lens will look to continue their impressive run of form while preparing for the upcoming Trophée des Champions final against their rivals Marseille.

For this upcoming game, the Spaniard coach will have to do without some of his players injured while Achraf Hakimi and Ibrahim Mbaye are representing their respective countries at the AFCON.

3 key talking points before the capital's derby between PSG and Paris FC

1. Start the year on a high note

The team led by Luis Enrique will look to open the year in the best possible way with a win as they are looking to reclaim the top spot of Ligue 1. The main objective of the club is not only to lift another Champions but also to continue their domestic domination and to do so, they will need to start winning league games while avoiding injuries in what will be a very difficult schedule.

2. Prepare for the Trophée des Champions against Marseille

In their first game back after the winter break, the Parisians will face their city rivals, a game that will be important to efficiently prepare the clash against Marseille in the Trophée des Champions. This game will not only be an important game against a rival and one of the best team in the country, but also the opportunity to lift the first trophy of the season which also kickstarted PSG's incredible run last season, leading to the triumph in the Champions League.

Therefore, a win in this final could be crucial as Paris as struggled at times to find a rhythm, notably because of injuries.

3. Luis Enrique needs to manage the players

Paris Saint-Germain will have a very difficult schedule to deal with, with the European Champions set to play six games in the next two weeks. Injuries have been a real issue for the club in the first part of the season, and with a calendar set to even more demanding of the players, Luis Enrique will need to manage his players' minutes on the pitch. A special care should be given to Ousmane Dembélé, the 2025 Ballon d'Or has struggled to maintain his fitness after several injuries, just like Désiré Doué.

To realise their main objective, which is to lift another Champions League at the end of the season, the staff will need to be careful just like they did last season.