PSG vs. Real Sociedad: The significant advantage for the Parisians

Two days away from the first leg of the Champions League round of 16 clash between PSG and Real Sociedad, the Basque club finds its infirmary still full. Amid confirmed absences and doubts, a review of the Spanish side's squad.

Between international competitions like the Africa Cup of Nations and the Asian Cup, combined with injuries to some players, January hasn't been easy for Real Sociedad. A potentially good piece of news for PSG? Two days away from the first leg of the Champions League round of 16, Imanol Alguacil faces real uncertainties and a true puzzle.

Officially, the Basque coach has one confirmed absence so far, that of left-back Aihen Muñoz, who is nursing a cruciate ligament rupture. Apart from this case, six other teammates have doubts about their availability this Wednesday, February 14th, at the Parc des Princes. According to information from the AS newspaper, Real Sociedad might have to do without Mikel Oyarzabal, Aritz Elustondo, or Kieran Tierney. The trio was absent from the last league match against Osasuna and also missed the following day's training session.

PSG could capitalize on Real's situation

Regarding the influential captain Mikel Oyarzabal, Imanol Alguacil and his team should do everything possible for him to travel with the squad to Paris and make a decision about his participation in the match after the final training session at Parc des Princes. As for Kieran Tierney, if his recovery progresses well, the first-leg match might come too soon for the Scottish international.

Also sidelined, Alvaro Odriozola, Carlos Fernandez, and Sheraldo Becker are unlikely to be available for this first-leg match. On the other hand, Brais Mendez, Robin Le Normand, Hamari Traore, and Ander Barrenetxea took part in Sunday's training session and are all considered starters at Parc des Princes.