As defending Champions League title holders, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) are facing a significant challenge as they navigate a growing injury crisis. Just weeks into the new season, a concerning number of players have been sidelined, casting a shadow over their aspirations to retain the coveted trophy.
The situation escalated following PSG's recent 2-0 victory against Lens in Ligue 1. While the win extended their perfect start to the league, the match came at a cost, with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Lee Kang-in, and Lucas Beraldo all forced off the field due to injuries. Kvaratskhelia suffered a calf injury, Lee Kang-in injured his ankle after taking a shot, and Beraldo was stretchered off with an ankle problem.
These fresh injuries compound existing concerns, as PSG were already without key players Ousmane Dembélé and Désiré Doué. Dembélé is expected to be out for around six weeks with a hamstring injury, while Doué is sidelined for approximately four weeks with a calf problem. Furthermore, Senny Mayulu has been unavailable since August 11 due to an adductor injury, Fabián Ruiz has been struggling with muscular issues since September 1, and Nordi Mukiele has been out since April with a muscle tear. Adding to the woes, Nuno Mendes is currently serving a suspension.
PSG's coach, Luis Enrique, acknowledged the difficult situation, stating, "The competition that everyone in football loves is coming up. It is a difficult time for us because we have injured players. We have to wait and see the results for the three players who got injured today. It is about our ability to adapt and we need to respond as a team". He now faces a selection headache as PSG prepares to host Atalanta in their Champions League opener.
The timing of the injury crisis is particularly unfavorable, with a demanding schedule ahead. Following the Champions League match against Atalanta, PSG faces a series of tough matches, including an away game against Marseille, a clash against Barcelona, and another away game against Lille. The depth and resilience of the squad will be severely tested as they compete on both domestic and European fronts.
The injuries to key players like Dembélé and potentially Lee Kang-in, who was enjoying a resurgence in the team, are significant setbacks. Lee Kang-in's injury is especially concerning as it occurred in the same area he had previously hurt during international duty. The recurrence suggests that he may not have been fully recovered when he returned to play.
Despite the challenges, PSG boasts a squad with considerable talent. Players like Bradley Barcola, who scored both goals in the win against Lens, will need to step up and shoulder more responsibility. The team's ability to adapt and find solutions in the face of adversity will be crucial as they aim to defend their Champions League title. The upcoming matches will reveal whether PSG can overcome this injury crisis and maintain their position as a dominant force in European football.
