PSG to Dominate Montpellier in Ligue 1 Clash
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) look to extend their winning start to the Ligue 1 season when they host Montpellier HSC at the Parc des Princes on Friday night. The reigning champions, still adjusting to life without Kylian Mbappe, narrowly defeated Le Havre last weekend and will be aiming for a more convincing performance against their struggling opponents.
A New Era for PSG
Luis Enrique's PSG, despite a late 4-1 win over Le Havre, face a challenge in maintaining their dominant form. The departure of Mbappe has left a significant void, but new signings Ousmane Dembele, Randal Kolo Muani, and Bradley Barcola showed promise in their debut appearances.
However, PSG's home record last season was a source of concern, with only nine victories in 17 matches. Montpellier, on the other hand, were one of the few sides to emerge victorious at the Parc des Princes last season, succumbing to a 3-0 defeat.
Off the pitch, the club's financial struggles continue to cast a shadow. PSG reportedly owe Mbappe up to â¬55m (£47m) in unpaid wages, a situation that could further destabilize the club.
Montpellier's Struggles Continue
Montpellier, under Michel Der Zakarian, narrowly avoided relegation last season, finishing 12th. Despite this, they are a far cry from the champions of 2011-12. Their 1-1 draw with Strasbourg on the opening day highlighted their limitations, and the gap to the European places remains substantial.
Facing a PSG side against whom they have a dismal record â 11 consecutive defeats and 40 goals conceded â does little to inspire confidence. A victory against the dominant force in French football seems highly unlikely.
Team News and Potential Lineups
PSG will be without Goncalo Ramos, who sustained an ankle injury in the win over Le Havre. Presnel Kimpembe and Lucas Hernandez are also sidelined, while Fabian Ruiz's return from Euro 2024 remains uncertain. Nuno Mendes is expected to return from suspension, bolstering the left flank.
Montpellier, meanwhile, have several defensive casualties. Theo Sainte-Luce, Christopher Jullien, Lucas Mincarelli, and Issiaga Sylla are all injured. Khalil Fayad is also unavailable, while Wahbi Khazri will be hoping to make his return after serving a suspension.
Possible Starting Lineups:
PSG: Donnarumma; Hakimi, Pacho, Lucas Beraldo, Nuno Mendes; Vitinha, Zaire-Emery, Lee Kang-in; Marco Asensio, Kolo Muani, Barcola.
Montpellier: Lecomte; Tchato, Omeragic, Sagnan, Sacko; Chotard, Ferri, Savanier; Nordin, Khazri, Al-Tamari.
Prediction: PSG 3-0 Montpellier
Despite their early season wobble, PSG are still the overwhelming favourites to overcome Montpellier. The visitors lack the firepower to trouble PSG's defence, and their recent record against the Parisians paints a bleak picture. Montpellier have not won a league game at PSG since the 2009-10 season, and this trend is likely to continue.
PSG's dominant form and Montpellier's struggles suggest a comfortable victory for the reigning champions.
