Despite the scenario of the match and the logical defeat (3-2) suffered against a much more consistent Barcelona team, there was no time for a hangover this Thursday morning at the PSG training center. There is still a return leg to be played next Tuesday at the Montjuïc stadium and Marquinhos’ partners were all aware, during their reunion in Poissy, that this spectacular double confrontation was still far from having delivered its verdict. Hopes and self-confidence: these are the key words that emerge from the Parisian locker room after a short night’s rest.
It is therefore in this state of mind that the Parisians, lucid about their shortcomings but not dejected, began preparation for their quarter-final return leg of the Champions League on Catalan soil. As usual the day after a match, Luis Enrique’s players benefited from an à la carte session.
Little opposition for replacements
Some starters remained working in the gym, others, like Marquinhos, Lucas Hernandez, Vitinha or Beraldo, took to the Campus lawn to touch the ball a little during small exercises. The substitutes and the players coming off the bench (Barcola, Zaire-Emery) were entitled to a little more in-depth training, notably with a little opposition. Suspended Wednesday evening, Achraf Hakimi was also present.
Resting on Friday and exempt from Ligue 1 matches this weekend, PSG players have three additional training sessions to fine-tune their preparation for this crucial meeting. Kylian Mbappé took advantage of this free time to go to Geneva to attend the “Watch and Wonders” fine watchmaking fair.
On the Barcelona side, the weekend will be a little livelier, since Xavi’s men take to the field of Cádiz, 18th in Liga, on Saturday evening (9 p.m.). The Spanish coach should make a significant turnover and spare his executives in anticipation of the reception of the capital club.
