PSG vs Marseille: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

Two of France's most iconic clubs meet again

Football fans around the world are gearing up for one of the most anticipated fixtures in French football as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Marseille, two of the country's most iconic clubs, prepare to clash at the Parc des Princes. This rivalry, often referred to as "Le Classique," is more than just a game; it's a historic showdown that ignites passion, sparks debates, and leaves a lasting impression on fans.

The perennial Ligue 1 champions, PSG, have had a somewhat rocky start to the current season. After five matches, they find themselves in fifth place on the league table, having secured two wins, two draws, and one loss. The season began with disappointments as they were held to draws by Lorient and Toulouse. However, they quickly ignited their campaign with back-to-back victories. A 3-1 win against Lens and a dominant 4-1 victory over Lyon saw Kylian Mbappe shine with a brace in each game.

But the euphoria was short-lived as PSG suffered their first defeat of the season, falling 3-2 to Nice after returning from the international break. Despite Mbappe's stellar performance and his eight goals in just five games across all competitions, PSG has been criticized for failing to capitalize on their dominance in recent matches.

Marseille enters this showdown on a different note. They recently played a thrilling 3-3 draw against Ajax in the Europa League, displaying resilience by coming back from both 2-0 and 3-2 deficits, largely thanks to a brace from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. This result is a testament to their impressive form this season, where they have lost just one of their eight matches across all competitions. Their only blemish was a penalty shootout defeat against Panathinaikos last month.

In Ligue 1, Marseille boasts a solid record with two wins and three draws, remaining unbeaten in domestic competition. Furthermore, they have one of the best defensive records in the French top flight, having conceded just four goals in five games. However, the club has faced turmoil off the pitch as manager Marcelino resigned just three months into his tenure. Supporters have reportedly expressed their dissatisfaction with the club's hierarchy during a recent meeting. Former Marseille defender Jacques Abardonado has stepped in as the interim manager, adding a layer of intrigue to the upcoming clash.

Kick-Off:

Monday, September 25, 2023, 12:15 AM (IST) at Parc des Princes Stadium, Paris, France.

Form

Paris Saint-Germain (Ligue 1): D D W W L

Paris Saint-Germain (All): D D W W L W

Marseille (Ligue 1): W D W D D

Marseille (All): L D W D D D

Players to Watch

Kylian Mbappé (PSG)

Tuesday's 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund by Paris in the UEFA Champions League Group F gave Mbappé his first European goal of the year, and Enrique believes he is the finest in the business.

Aubameyang (Marseille)

Speaking before Marseille's Europa League match against Ajax later that day, Aubameyang discussed the topic. Marseille will have a challenging journey to Monaco the following Saturday after the PSG game.

Match facts for Paris Saint-Germain vs. Marseille

• David Friio, the sporting director for Marseille, and Jacques Abardonado, the head coach of the first team, have assumed interim control and might still be in the dugout on Sunday at Parc des Princes.
• Ismaela Sarr, who has a hamstring ailment, as well as the suspended Pape Gueye won't be on whoever chooses the team on Sunday. The preferred candidate to take the former's spot on the right side is François-Régis Mughe.

Team news and Injury

As PSG prepares for the Le Classique showdown, they continue to grapple with injury concerns. Long-term absentees Presnel Kimpembe, Sergio Rico, and Nuno Mendes will be unavailable for selection. Additionally, new signing Marco Asensio is set to miss Sunday's clash due to a foot injury.

In their recent match, PSG featured Ousmane Dembele and Randal Kolo Muani alongside Kylian Mbappe in the forward line, while Warren Zaire-Emery, Manuel Ugarte, and Vitinha occupied the midfield spots within a 4-3-3 formation. Substitute options included Goncalo Ramos, Danilo Pereira, and Lee Kang-in, but their roles in the upcoming fixture remain uncertain as manager Luis Enrique aims to establish consistency.

Marseille's injury list contains Pedro Ruiz and former Watford winger Ismaila Sarr, who will be sorely missed. Sarr had made an impact with two goals and two assists in his first six appearances for the club. After a marathon draw against Ajax, some Marseille players may have tired legs. Caretaker boss Jacques Abardonado could opt for changes in the lineup, but Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is expected to continue leading the attack.

Head-to-Head

Matches: 105

Paris Saint-Germain: 49

Draw: 21

Marseille: 35

Predicted Lineup

Paris Saint-Germain:

Donnarumma; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Skriniar, Hernandez; Zaire-Emery, Ugarte, Vitinha; Dembele, Kolo Muani, Mbappe

Marseille:

Lopez; Clauss, Mbemba, Balerdi, Lodi; Mughe, Rongier, Veretout, Correa; Oliviera, Aubameyang

Match Prediction for PSG vs Marseille

As we approach this electrifying clash between PSG and Marseille, it's essential to consider historical statistics. Fourteen of the last 20 meetings between these two giants of French football have produced at least three goals. This trend suggests that Sunday's installment of Le Classique will likely be a high-scoring affair.

Furthermore, Marseille has struggled against PSG in recent years, winning just two of their previous 28 encounters across all competitions.

Prediction: PSG 3-1 Marseille

Telecast

India – Sports 18Networks

UK– BT Sports Networks

US – beIN Sports Connect, fuboTV

Nigeria– CANAL+ , TV5Monde