Just days before their Champions League semi-final second leg, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain both rotated their squads over the weekend. Already crowned German champions, Bayern saw Vincent Kompany field a heavily reshuffled side against Heidenheim, leaving key players such as Manuel Neuer, Joshua Kimmich, and Harry Kane on the bench.
The same approach was taken in Paris. Following the thrilling 5-4 first-leg clash, Luis Enrique also made major changes to his starting eleven against Lorient, giving valuable minutes to younger players and substitutes.
Squad Rotation Points to Near-Identical Lineups
The objective for both European giants is clear: protect their key players and arrive fresh for the decisive showdown in Munich. So what lineups can be expected? Likely very similar ones. For PSG, Achraf Hakimi will be absent due to injury.
Aside from that, Luis Enrique is not expected to spring any surprises. The only adjustment could involve Warren Zaïre-Emery shifting to a full-back role, with Fabian Ruiz stepping into midfield. However, Ruiz has just returned from injury and lacks match rhythm, as seen against Lorient. The Spanish coach could instead opt for Lucas Beraldo in midfield or drop Désiré Doué deeper. Still, Ruiz captained the side last Saturday before being replaced by Zaïre-Emery, suggesting the staff aimed to ease him back in.
As for the rest, there are no major changes expected. Injured goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier will not be on the bench.
PSG’s probable lineup against Bayern: Safonov – Zaïre-Emery, Marquinhos (c), Pacho, Nuno Mendes – Ruiz or Beraldo, Vitinha, Neves – Doué, Dembélé, Kvaratskhelia.
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