The Barcelona vs PSG clash will be one of the marquee fixtures of the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, October 1, when the two sides meet at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys in what promises to be a high-stakes, emotionally charged night.
Barcelona arrive with some long injury lists but a boost from returning young talent, while PSG – reigning European champions – must manage absences and prove their depth can match ambition.
Match Details
Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys
Barcelona, Spain
1 October
Kickoff 20:00 BST
Yamal’s Return Lifts Barca
Lamine Yamal is set to return to the starting XI following his return from injury, giving Barcelona a major attacking injection. His creativity, dribbling and ability to pull defenders out of shape will be key in unlocking PSG’s back line.
With long-term absences affecting their squad, Yamal’s presence may be one of the few differences that separates the two sides, especially with Raphina’s absence.
PSG’s Injury Woes Dim Their Firepower
PSG are without several key players heading into this game.
Marquinhos is injured and will miss several weeks. 2025 Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue are also out. Joao Neves is back in the squad after a hamstring issue, while Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has been ruled out.
These absences mean PSG may struggle for width or cutting edge, particularly if their midfielders are also under pressure.
Defensive Stability Under Scrutiny
Barcelona’s defence and goalkeeping are under the spotlight.
First-choice goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen is sidelined. Joan Garcia is also out with a meniscus injury, so Wojciech Szczesny is expected to start.
At centre-back, there is talk that Ronald Araujo might be rotated, with a pairing of Pau Cubarsi and Eric Garcia possibly getting the nod. Full-backs and the back line will be under constant test, especially against PSG’s pace in transition.
Any lapse in concentration or miscommunication will be ruthlessly punished, given the quality of chances PSG can create from limited opportunities.
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Barcelona vs PSG Injuries
Barcelona injuries: Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Gavi, Fermin Lopez, Joan Garcia, Raphina, Alejandro Balde (to be assessed)
PSG injuries: Marquinhos, Ousmane Dembele, Desire Doue, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (to be assesed), Vitinha (to be assesed), Joao Neves (to be assesed), Fabian Ruiz (to be assesed)
Barcelona vs PSG Predicted Lineups
Knowing how vital this match is, Hansi Flick and Luis Enrique will push to field strong squads, though absences will force tough choices. Here, we look at the Barcelona vs PSG predicted lineups:
Barcelona predicted XI: Wojciech Szczesny, Jules Kounde, Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, Gerard Martin, Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Marcus Rashford, Robert Lewandowski
PSG predicted XI: Lucas Chevalier, Achraf Hakimi, Ilya Zabarnyi, Willian Pacho, Nuno Mendes, Warren Zaire-Emery, Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz, Bradley Barcola, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Goncalo Ramos
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / NurPhoto
Recording Date: 28.09.2025