As the Paris Saint-Germain squad prepares to travel to Austria for their pivotal sixth matchday in the UEFA Champions League, the club has unveiled its list of players for this decisive game.
Among the standout names is Lucas Hernandez, who returns to the squad after a significant absence.
His inclusion is a positive development for PSG, as the versatile defender offers options both on the right flank and as a central defender.
Key decisions for Luis Enrique
Lucas Hernandez’s return isn’t the only notable aspect of this squad announcement. Speculation surrounds the goalkeeper position, with doubts persisting about Gianluigi Donnarumma’s performances.
Neither Donnarumma nor Anatoliy Trubin has fully convinced in recent matches, opening the door for Arnau Tenas.
The young Spanish keeper, who starred in Spain’s Olympic gold medal-winning campaign, could make a surprising start against Salzburg.
Le groupe pour le déplacement à Salzbourg ! 📋🔴🔵#UCL | @ChampionsLeague pic.twitter.com/4R3k1wSJPf
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_inside) December 9, 2024
Tenas’ composure and decisive play in high-pressure situations have earned him recognition as one of the brightest prospects in European football.
Meanwhile, PSG will need to compensate for the absence of Ousmane Dembele, who remains suspended following his red card against Bayern Munich.
This creates an opportunity for Luis Enrique to devise a more collective offensive strategy, moving away from reliance on individual brilliance.
Dembele had been a focal point in PSG’s attacking setup, and this match offers a chance to explore a more balanced and cohesive approach.
A must-win scenario for PSG
With PSG currently at risk of missing out on the knockout stages, the stakes could not be higher.
The team faces the daunting task of securing all three points to keep their Champions League hopes alive.
RB Salzburg, sitting at the bottom of the standings, has struggled in this phase but remains a potential threat.
For PSG, this game is not just about redemption but survival, making it one of the most crucial fixtures in the club’s recent history.