Champions League Qualification: Dembélé and Ruiz Race Against Time for Monaco Playoff
While their teammates enjoyed a rest day on Monday, Ousmane Dembélé and Fabian Ruiz continued their treatment at the Camp des Loges training centre. Unlike Senny Mayulu and Quentin Ndjantou, the pair haven’t been officially ruled out of Wednesday’s crucial Champions League playoff return leg against Monaco (9 PM CET).
A further assessment will be conducted on Tuesday to determine their availability. The stakes are high as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) aim to secure their place in the group stages of Europe’s premier club competition.
Injury Updates: Dembélé and Ruiz
Dembélé was forced off after just 27 minutes in the first leg (3-2 defeat) due to a left calf injury sustained during the 1-3 loss at Rennes four days prior. The winger’s participation remains uncertain, and the club will be cautious given his recent injury history. You can find more information about PSG’s squad on their official website.
Ruiz, meanwhile, hasn’t played since the 1-2 defeat away to Sporting Lisbon on January 20th, due to a left knee injury. He has recently resumed individual training, offering a glimmer of hope for his inclusion. His recovery is being carefully managed to avoid any setbacks.
Team News and Press Conference
PSG will train on Tuesday at 11 AM CET, followed by a press conference around 1 PM CET. Luis Enrique will be joined by Désiré Doué to provide updates on the team’s condition and strategy for the match. Doué, who was substituted as a precaution during Saturday’s 3-0 win against Metz, is reportedly feeling no further pain in his adductors.
The Ligue des Champions qualification is paramount for PSG, and the availability of key players like Dembélé and Ruiz could be decisive. The team will be looking to capitalize on home advantage and secure a positive result to advance to the group stage. For detailed match previews and analysis, check out UEFA’s official Champions League website.
Looking Ahead
The return leg promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams vying for a coveted spot in the Champions League. PSG will need to be at their best to overcome Monaco and continue their European journey.
