PARIS – Ilya Zabarnyi will feature in Paris Saint-Germain’s starting lineup as they face AS Monaco in a crucial Ligue 1 match on Friday. The Ukrainian defender’s inclusion marks a notable shift in PSG’s defensive structure, with captain Marquinhos on the bench, according to team announcements prior to kickoff.
The decision to start Zabarnyi comes as PSG navigate a busy schedule and manage player fitness. Marquinhos, who recently scored against Monaco ten days ago, is being rested, allowing Zabarnyi to partner Lucas Beraldo Pacho in central defense. This signals a growing trust in the 21-year-old, who joined PSG last August for a reported €63 million plus €3 million in bonuses, as reported by Reuters. [1]
Further adjustments to the PSG lineup are due to the absences of Ruiz and Joao Neves. Warren Zaïre-Emery and Enzo Fernandez will anchor the midfield, providing a blend of youth and experience. Ousmane Dembélé, recently returning from injury, is named among the substitutes, with Bradley Barcola expected to play in a false nine role.
The full PSG starting eleven, confirmed by the club, is: Safonov – Hakimi, Zabarnyi, Pacho, Mendes – Fernandez, Vitinha, Zaïre-Emery – Doué, Barcola, Kvaratskhelia.
Zabarnyi’s early months at PSG were described as “complicated” following his high-profile transfer. While he initially struggled for consistent playing time, particularly in the Champions League, he has recently demonstrated improved form in Ligue 1. He has the third-highest playing time in Ligue 1 for PSG, but only 17th in the Champions League, a statistic reflecting his limited involvement in European competition. [1]
Despite this disparity, PSG coach Luis Enrique has publicly expressed his satisfaction with Zabarnyi’s recent performances. “I like it when you speak well of Zabarnyi,” Enrique said last weekend, following strong performances against Metz and Le Havre. “He played a remarkably excellent match in the last one he played. Today, for me, he was the best PSG player on the pitch.” [1] This public backing suggests Zabarnyi is firmly in Enrique’s plans for the future, potentially as a long-term replacement for Marquinhos.
The arrival of Zabarnyi has prompted discussion about the future of Marquinhos, the long-serving PSG captain. While Marquinhos remains a respected figure within the club, PSG’s shift towards a younger, more dynamic squad suggests his role may evolve. As PSG Post noted, the signing of Zabarnyi signals a preparation for life beyond Marquinhos, where respect doesn’t automatically guarantee a starting position. [3]
This tactical approach aligns with Luis Enrique’s vision for a high-pressing, ball-dominant PSG. Zabarnyi’s profile – calm on the ball, tactically aware, and physically commanding – fits this style of play. The club’s recent signings, including Barcola and Kang-in Lee, further underscore this commitment to building a younger, more balanced team. [3]
The match against Monaco represents an important opportunity for PSG to solidify their position in Ligue 1. The team is currently competing for domestic honors while also navigating the challenges of the Champions League. Zabarnyi’s performance will be closely watched as he seeks to establish himself as a key member of the PSG defense. The Ukrainian’s ability to consistently deliver strong performances will be crucial as PSG looks to build a successful future.
Notably, PSG recently secured a UEFA Super Cup victory, a match where Zabarnyi was also recognized by captain Marquinhos, further highlighting the growing respect within the squad. [4]
Following the match against Monaco, PSG will prepare for their next fixture, details of which will be announced by the league. Fans can follow official PSG channels for updates on team news, match schedules, and ticket information.
What are your thoughts on PSG’s lineup choices? Share your predictions and analysis in the comments below.
- Reuters. “PSG Has Clear Plan for Ilya Zabarnyi’s Future Amid Speculation.” Sports.yahoo.com, 4 March 2026, https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/psg-clear-plan-ilya-zabarnyis-213230527.html.
- Google News. “Zabarnyi’s arrival raises tough questions about Marquinhos’ future at PSG.” news.google.com, accessed 6 March 2026, https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiqAFBVV95cUxPRXNBQVNYQXpMTmFMbWlJT0MyekhCQklMbFVVSDN3RktuajRKLUdGd1pteUxtaDd5UnBZR3BoTzRsUDhKNzVkYXhiQlNfVjRfTUVIVGVQVUUzWjZuS01OcXZxaUlqcnhuY1pMekxnSjVpbmR5VDFCbUJUbU5qbk1TV280X1p1OGtESUhvRU5KQkRfa05ZLUt3Z1BfU185SlpFRFJqcXhKUV8.
- PSG Post. “Zabarnyi’s arrival raises tough questions about Marquinhos’ future at PSG.” psgpost.com, accessed 6 March 2026, https://psgpost.com/zabarnyi-s-arrival-raises-tough-questions-about-marquinhos-future-at-psg-01k1w4bf0681.
- mezha.net. “PSG Wins UEFA Super Cup; Illia Zabarnyi Honored by Captain Marquinhos.” news.google.com, accessed 6 March 2026, https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMingFBVV95cUxQdlVSS0drZXh4MFdzODJ6SE5MWXh6Z2w5M3RtbEpLZVEyVkxwUjRRQVRubjRaSkV5S0g3YVhyY0I0YnJWNTRUb3UxZU5VeURmeWxmVnFVUXIxSVJoc2xUcVQ5ZTFrZlE0cktNeGFCMWJMeENTZlgwRXJjOWRER3JiaEh2ZGlCem5VLUJiS1Q4NGdISVVnQ2RGcDFIZVhpdw.
