Major PSG injury update ahead of Champions League clash against Girona

Paris Saint-Germain are gearing up for their debut in the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League as they host Girona on Wednesday, 18 September, at the Parc des Princes. The Parisian side arrives with uncertainty over two players, while four are definitely ruled out.

Lucas Hernandez, Presnel Kimpembe, Goncalo Ramos, and Gianluigi Donnarumma are all unavailable for the match. However, the situation is less clear regarding the midfield duo of Vitinha and Warren Zaire-Emery.

A few hours ago, we reported that Zaire-Emery participated in Sunday’s training session, whereas Vitinha did not. On Monday, the situation shifted slightly as the French player took part in training but not fully, while the Portuguese was involved in the entire session.

As of 16 September, Vitinha appears to be in a better position to play against Girona in the Champions League opener, with Zaire-Emery being more uncertain.

Major PSG injury update ahead of Champions League clash against Girona

What seems clear is that both players will be named in the squad for the match, with the main question being who might start or if either will be fit enough to begin the game. According to Luis Enrique’s philosophy and statements, he should not be too concerned, as he has quality players like Fabian Ruiz, Joao Neves, and Kang-In Lee to cover the midfield.

However, fans might have reasons for concern. Vitinha is often cited as one of PSG’s best players, if not the best, and Zaire-Emery, a product of the Parisian academy, is highly regarded and frequently requested by supporters.

Regarding Gianluigi Donnarumma's absence, Le Parisien reports that the most likely replacement would be the Russian goalkeeper Matvey Safonov, rather than the recent Olympic champion with Spain and the coach's compatriot, Arnau Tenas.

In defence, aside from the long-term absences of Kimpembe and Hernandez, everything seems to be in order, as is the case in attack, aside from Ramos’s absence. It is likely that we will see William Pacho partner with Marquinhos in the back line, and Marco Asensio take up the centre-forward role.