The reigning European champions host the league’s bottom side this Saturday, February 21, 2026 (9:05 p.m.), at the Parc des Princes for Matchday 23 of Ligue 1. On paper, the clash looks one-sided. But with Lens close behind in the standings and a decisive Champions League second leg against AS Monaco looming, Paris cannot afford any complacency.
There are several absentees and doubts ahead of this encounter. PSG must carefully manage its squad. Between the two European legs against Monaco, Luis Enrique is expected to rest several key players (Hakimi, Mendes, Pacho, and possibly Vitinha). A significant rotation is anticipated on the Paris side.
Injuries, Doubts and Expected Rotation for PSG vs Metz
PSG absentees: Ousmane Dembélé (calf), Quentin Ndjantou (thigh, long-term). Doubts: Fabian Ruiz, Senny Mayulu, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Metz absentees: Benjamin Stambouli (rib), Joseph Mangondo (knee), Pape Sy, Ismaël Guerti. Doubtful: Gauthier Hein. Returning: Jean-Philippe Gbamin (suspension served).
Dembélé is expected to be sidelined for around ten days, while Ruiz and Kvaratskhelia remain under close monitoring. On the Metz side, the squad is depleted, though Gbamin’s return brings valuable experience.
PSG’s probable lineup (4-3-3):
Safonov
Zaïre-Emery – Marquinhos – Beraldo – Mendes or Hernandez
Lee Kang-in – Vitinha – Neves
Barcola or Mbaye – Ramos – Désiré Doué
Potential bold choices include deploying Zaïre-Emery at right-back to preserve Hakimi, and starting Beraldo if Pacho is rested. Lee Kang-in could feature centrally if Ruiz is not fully fit. Doué and Barcola may energize the flanks in Dembélé’s absence, while Ramos is set to lead the line, either to rest Kvaratskhelia or cover for his uncertainty. If Ruiz or Kvaratskhelia are ultimately cleared to play, one of the youngsters could begin on the bench. Metz have not won in the league since November 9. Their plan will be clear: sit deep, strike on the counter, and capitalize on a potentially reshuffled PSG. Paris must manage the game wisely—win without overexerting, maintain pressure in Ligue 1, and build momentum ahead of the European showdown. Rotation, yes. Complacency, no.
