Barcelona Receives Major Injury Relief Ahead of Crucial PSG Champions League Showdown

Barcelona have gained a significant advantage before their much-awaited encounter with Champions League titleholders Paris Saint-Germain, as Vitinha and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia are uncertain to feature after leaving PSG's weekend fixture with visible injury concerns.

Luis Enrique's squad managed to secure a 2–0 victory over Auxerre to maintain their position at the summit of Ligue 1 following six matches. However, the triumph came at a cost, as they now prepare for a challenging journey to Barcelona while dealing with fresh fitness worries regarding two of their key performers.

The Catalan club completed the 2024–25 campaign without suffering a home defeat in the Champions League. During their season opener at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, Hansi Flick's team recovered from a deficit to overcome Real Sociedad 2–1, marking Lamine Yamal's first outing since August.

Yamal's comeback brings positive news following a period when Barcelona endured several major injury setbacks.

Barcelona aren't the only team grappling with fitness issues, though. PSG might be missing up to seven players who featured in last May's Champions League final during their Spanish expedition, a situation Enrique feels overshadows the encounter.

Luis Enrique Gives Verdict Over Injury Filled Barcelona vs. PSG Clash

"Witnessing a match between Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain with five or six crucial players [from both sides] unavailable... For me it's disappointing, for the coach, Flick, and for supporters of both clubs," Enrique commented.

Regarding Vitinha and Kvaratskhelia specifically, Enrique explained that PSG would need to await updates on their fitness for the Barcelona visit.

"We must wait for the medical team to inform us tomorrow or the following day about the nature of their injuries," Enrique stated. "We have to remain optimistic because we need to handle this circumstance. Paris Saint-Germain aren't the sole club dealing with injuries. This applies to every team facing such a demanding schedule."

Many anticipated that Barcelona and PSG would eventually meet in last season's Champions League final. Since the 2025–26 league phase draw was announced, this fixture has been highlighted as one of the most eagerly awaited matches of the tournament's opening stage.

Despite the numerous injuries and key players who might be absent from the clash, Enrique couldn't conceal his enthusiasm about confronting his previous club.

"It's a genuine joy to compete against a team that shares our same philosophy, our same approach."

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