PSG - Bayern Munich is one of the most exciting matches in the round of 16 of the Champions League. The first leg between these two European football giants will take place this Tuesday, February 14, 2023, at the Parc des Princes stadium in Paris.
Paris Saint-Germain reaches the tie as the leader of Ligue 1, but with some doubts. First, due to the two consecutive defeats suffered, one in the French league against Monaco (3-1) and another in the French Cup, where they were eliminated by Olympique de Marseille (2-1).
The physical state of some of the PSG stars is also worrying, starting with Kylian Mbappé. The French striker was injured on February 1 and, although the doctors established a three-week absence period, the player speeds up his options to be available for the Champions League duel, the great obsession of the Parisian club. To begin with, he already participated in the first part of training on Monday.
In a situation similar to that of Mbappé are Leo Messi and Marco Verratti, footballers who did not play in the defeat against Monaco. The Argentine has had hamstring problems since the Cup match, while the Italian has a sore hip. Coach Christophe Galtier must decide how far he is willing to risk putting these players.
In case Mbappé, Messi and Verratti are unavailable to play, at least starting, PSG’s 11 to measure up to Bayern could be formed by Donnarumma; Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Sergio Ramos, Nuno Mendes; Zaire-Emery, Danilo Pereira, Carlos Soler, Vitinha; Neymar and Hugo Ekitike.
For its part, Bayern Munich arrives in Paris as the leader of the Bundesliga and overturned the three draws in a row that reduced their lead over their pursuers. Julian Nagelsmann's men have accumulated two consecutive victories, two in the league, against Bochum (3-0) and Wolfsburg (2-4), and another in the round of 16 of the German Cup, against Mainz 05 (0-4 ).
Looking at the latest results, not too many surprises are expected in the starting 11 of the German team. Without Manuel Neuer having recovered from his injury, Yann Sommer will be under the sticks. The defense will be in charge of Benjamin Pavard, Dayot Upamecano, Mathjis de Light; the keys to the midfield will be held by Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka; later, the weight of Kingsley Coman, Jamal Musiala, Thomas Müller and Erich-Maxim Choupo Moting and, for the last starting position, Leroy Sané or Serge Gnabry.
It should be remembered that in the group stage of the Champions League, PSG qualified in second position, tied on points with Benfica (both with four wins and two draws), which ended up as leader thanks to their win against Maccabi Haifa in the last day (1-6). Bayern Munich was more of a German roller than ever, finishing in first place in group C (Barça's) with an immaculate record of six wins and no defeats, with 18 goals for and only two against.
The first leg of the Champions League round of 16 match between PSG and Bayern Munich will take place this Tuesday, February 14, at the Parque de los Príncipes stadium in Paris starting at 9:00 p.m.
The match between Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich in the Champions League can be seen on live television through the Movistar Champions League channel. You can also follow PSG - Bayern live on EL MUNDO.
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