Ligue 1 – Matchday 16
Paris Saint-Germain travel to FC Metz this Saturday evening (7:00 PM) at Stade Saint-Symphorien, knowing a win would allow them to temporarily move top of Ligue 1. For this away trip, Luis Enrique can count on the return of Lucas Chevalier, but will once again have to cope with the absence of several key players.
After missing the last two matches due to an ankle injury, Chevalier is back in the PSG squad for the clash in Metz. The French goalkeeper had been sidelined since the defeat at Monaco (1–0) on November 29, during which he suffered a heavy tackle from Lamine Camara. He subsequently required nearly two weeks of rest before returning to full training.
During Chevalier’s absence, Matvey Safonov delivered a convincing interim spell. The Russian goalkeeper kept a clean sheet in Bilbao (0–0) in the Champions League and impressed against Rennes (5–0), notably with a decisive save against Esteban Lepaul. His performances were praised by Luis Enrique on Friday:
“It’s clear that we want all players to be ready, and Safonov showed that he was ready. He waited for his moment and came in at a very good time. That’s very important for the team.”
With Chevalier back in the group, the question now remains whether Safonov will keep his place or return to the bench.
Key absences confirmed
PSG will, however, be without Ousmane Dembélé, Marquinhos, and Achraf Hakimi for this trip to Metz.
Dembélé, who was already absent against Bilbao, remains sidelined after illness and has only resumed individual training. Marquinhos, forced off at half-time on Wednesday, is dealing with muscular fatigue in his right hip and has not recovered in time. Hakimi continues his long-term absence.
Despite these absences, PSG will look to get the job done in Lorraine and apply pressure at the top of the table, ahead of the Lens–Nice fixture scheduled for Sunday.
