Barcelona star not expected to start vs PSG due to ‘lack of rhythm’

Barcelona have a big task on their hands in three days as they travel to French capital Paris to lock horns against PSG for the first-leg of the Champions League quarter-finals.

The second leg is scheduled to go ahead at Saint Montjuic Stadium next week, but before that Barcelona will need to navigate the first leg with several players sidelined due to injury.

This includes midfield duo Pedri and Frenkie de Jong, both of whom picked up injuries vs Athletic Club. The former picked up a hamstring knock, while the latter rolled his ankle, and both of them were initially ruled out for the PSG tie.

There have been several updates since then, with some claiming that both players will be back in time for the game, while others have said the opposite. And now, there is a new update on the situation.

De Jong lacks rhythm

While Pedri seems to be have been completely ruled out for the game against PSG, Barcelona are still hoping to have de Jong fit and in the squad.

However, a recent report from SPORT has claimed that Frenkie de Jong lacks rhythm and is not expected to start the game even if he is given the green light to participate in the game.

With Andreas Christensen expected to be fully fit and in contention to start alongside Ilkay Gundogan, this means the last midfield spot will be up for grabs between Sergi Roberto and Fermin Lopez.

The latter has made an incredible mark on the team in terms of intensity and his eye for goal, but there is an argument to be made for the former due to control he brings to the side, which could be more important for the first leg.

How will the rest of the team look?

The defence should be rather straightforward, with Pau Cubarsi partnering Ronald Araujo in central defence, while Joao Cancelo takes his place on the left side of the quarter and Jules kounde on the right.

With the backline and midfield pretty much picking itself, the only doubt in Xavi’s mind should be about the left-wing, assuming Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal are starting as the striker and right-winger, respectively.

Raphinha has done well as a left-winger in recent weeks, with a solid performance against Las Palmas and Napoli. Ferran Torres is back from injury, though, and alongside Joao Felix, will be contending for a spot.