PSG Gears Up For Chelsea Showdown With Monaco Rematch

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is preparing for a crucial Champions League last-16 clash against Chelsea, starting with a rematch against Monaco on Friday. Head coach Luis Enrique is keen to kick off “the best part of the season” as PSG seeks to recapture their scintillating form that led to last season’s Champions League triumph.

Despite not finding their rhythm this season, PSG remains in contention for both the French and European titles. The team will face Chelsea at Parc des Princes next Wednesday, marking their first encounter since last July’s Club World Cup final, where PSG suffered a 3-0 defeat.

PSG advanced to the Champions League last 16 with a nail-biting 5-4 aggregate victory over Monaco in last month’s play-offs. Friday’s match will be the third meeting between the two clubs in a short span, as they also faced off in Ligue 1 recently.

Currently, PSG leads the French league, holding a four-point advantage over Lens, despite missing last year’s Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele for much of the season due to an injury. A recent 1-0 victory against Le Havre marked their ninth win in ten Ligue 1 matches, while Lens has faltered, earning just a single point from their last two fixtures.

Enrique expressed his eagerness for the upcoming matches, stating, “The best part of the season is beginning. We can’t wait.” He also noted the significance of the match against Monaco, likening it to a Champions League encounter due to both teams’ competitive spirits.

Dembele is expected to feature against Monaco, having returned to training, although midfielders Joao Neves and Fabian Ruiz are sidelined with injuries. Monaco, currently seventh in the league, aims for European qualification and poses a challenge for PSG.