Is Kylian Mbappe Starting Tonight for PSG vs Barcelona?

The stage is set for Paris Saint-Germain and FC Barcelona. In just a few hours, the two formidable sides will face each other for the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals. With both sides preparing for the fixture in full swing, the question looms regarding the presence of PSG’s star player, Kylian Mbappe.

Well, worry not, Parisians, as the beloved French superstar is fit and fine to face the Spanish giants for tonight’s clash. There are no injury concerns surrounding the 25-year-old, as he has been training normally alongside the entire team with full intensity. Dropping him on the bench is something that isn’t in Luis Enrique’s dictionary. Hence, the Spanish tactician will be deploying his star player against his former domestic side. Of course, on the other hand, there is a price that can force Enrique to bench him. 

Notably, Mbappe has been a crucial player for the Ligue 1 side. Before facing Barcelona, the 2018 World Cup winner started in the French Cup semifinal against Rennes. Moreover, he has been in quite remarkable form for the French giants. In over 40 appearances across all competitions, Mbappe has bagged over 39 goals and 9 assists. He even leads the Ligue 1 top scorer charts with over 24 goals. However, he is two goals short of PSV’s Luuk de Jong in the Champions League, who leads the list with 8 goals. 

Nonetheless, with the Dutch side being eliminated earlier, Mbappe has a chance in the quarterfinals to surpass the likes of Antoine Griezmann, Erling Haaland, and Harry Kane, who are also tied with 6 goals. While the skipper looks to carry his side in tonight’s clash, which absentees remain for the upcoming clash?

Kylian Mbappe and Co. are facing FC Barcelona with key absentees

The majority of big names have been ruled out of facing Barcelona in the opening leg. According to the latest injury report shared by the club’s website, Presnel Kimpembe is continuing his Achilles injury recovery. Likewise, following tests carried out by a French Football Federation expert neurologist, Nordi Mukiele will continue his post-commotion protocol in the coming days.

Additionally, while Layvin Kurzawa is nursing his back injury, goalkeeper Sergio Rico is out with a head trauma. Sadly, Achraf Hakimi is also missing tonight’s clash due to a suspension. Remarkably, in the pre-match presser, Enrique said, “I try to have a positive approach with regards to the absentees.” Hence, these words suggest that the Spaniard already has the game prepared in the face of a lengthy absentee list. 

Nevertheless, tonight’s clash will answer all the questions. But we would like to hear your predictions for the match.