PSG and Arsenal facing major injury concerns ahead of Champions League clash
By Manuel Meza
With the UEFA Champions League drawing closer, anticipation is building for the clash between Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal on 1st October at the Emirates Stadium. However, both teams are facing injury concerns that could significantly impact their line-ups for this crucial match.
For PSG, the recent international break has not been kind. Key players Vitinha, Desire Doue, and Warren Zaire-Emery have all returned to Paris nursing injuries sustained while on duty with their national teams. Fortunately for the Parisian club, Vitinha and Doue appear to have escaped serious harm, with their injuries reportedly not severe enough to sideline them for an extended period. This is welcome news for PSG fans, as both players have become integral parts of the team's midfield.
However, the situation is less clear for Warren Zaire-Emery. The young midfielder, who has been making waves with his performances for PSG, might miss the start of the Champions League campaign due to his injury. His absence would be a significant blow for the French champions, who are looking to make a strong statement in Europe this season.
PSG and Arsenal facing major injury concerns ahead of Champions League clash
On the other hand, Arsenal have injury woes of their own. According to reports from Le Parisien (h/t Canal Supporters), the Gunners could be without their star midfielder Martin Odegaard for the upcoming fixture against PSG. Odegaard suffered an ankle injury while representing Norway during the international break. The Norwegian national team’s doctor has estimated that he will need at least three weeks to recover fully. If this prognosis is accurate, it would rule Odegaard out of the match against PSG, leaving a considerable void in Arsenal's attacking capabilities.
In contrast, PSG may feel relatively reassured heading into this fixture, thanks to the availability of Fabian Ruiz. The Spanish midfielder has been impressive in recent international matches, despite having seen limited action at the start of the season with the Parisians.
PSG boss Luis Enrique might not be as concerned about the injury issues, given Ruiz's potential to step up. Additionally, another option for the midfield could be Kang-In Lee. With both teams facing key absences, the match could turn into a tactical and resilient battle, where PSG's depth in the squad might play a crucial role.