PSG Rocked as Star Player Ruled out of Barcelona Showdown

• A top PSG player has joined the growing list of big-name absentees for Paris Saint-Germain after suffering a thigh issue
• His setback poses a major disruption to Luis Enrique’s plans ahead of one of PSG’s toughest challenges this season.
• The latest injury blow for Luis Enrique's side comes in the wake of injuries to stars Joao Neves and Desire Doue, as well as Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele

Paris Saint-Germain have suffered a major blow with captain Marquinhos ruled out for several weeks due to a left quadriceps injury.

The Brazilian defender will miss this weekend’s Ligue 1 clash with Auxerre as well as the crucial Champions League tie against Barcelona.

PSG must now turn to their backups to steady the defence ahead of a decisive run of fixtures.

Marquinhos, who completed the full 90 minutes in the 1-0 defeat to Marseille, now adds to PSG’s growing injury list alongside Joao Neves, Desire Doue, and Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele.

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Although Bradley Barcola has returned to training and is expected to feature against Auxerre, Marquinhos’ absence leaves a significant void at the heart of the defence.

The Ligue 1 giants released a statement on their website:

"Friday, September 26th's medical update concerns Joao Neves, Desire Doue, Ousmane Dembele, and Marquinhos. Joao Neves, Desire Doue, Ousmane Dembele are continuing their rehabilitation process. Suffering from a left quadriceps issue, Marquinhos will remain in treatment for the coming weeks."

Marquinhos’ setback has thrown a wrench into Luis Enrique’s plans ahead of one of PSG’s biggest challenges this season.

The 31-year-old has been a cornerstone in central defence, offering leadership and composure while linking effectively with Vitinha in midfield.

In his absence, young Ukrainian Illia Zabarnyi is expected to take on greater responsibility, with Fabian Ruiz and Warren Zaire-Emery tasked with keeping the midfield stable.

PSG's injury woes and key players on the comeback trail

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Per Goal, Barcola’s return offers a boost in attack, giving Enrique options down the wing.

Meanwhile, Ruiz completed individual running sessions rather than full training, and Zaire-Emery remains a key candidate to hold midfield stability during Marquinhos’ absence.

Marquinhos has been a vital presence in central defence, offering leadership and stability while complementing teammates like Vitinha in anchoring the team’s structure.

PSG face Auxerre this weekend with a patched-up defence before heading to the Estadio Olímpico Lluís Companys for their Champions League showdown with Barcelona.

Enrique will need to reshuffle both the backline and midfield to compensate for Marquinhos’ absence, relying on younger players to rise to the occasion.

The challenge lies in keeping the defence solid while ensuring the attack remains sharp on Europe’s grandest stage.

Why PSG star is a deserved Ballon d'Or winner

In an earlier feature, YEN.com.gh broke down the compelling factors that placed Ousmane Dembele ahead of his rivals in the Ballon d’Or race.

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The report highlighted his decisive performances for PSG, his consistency across competitions, and the historic quadruple that strengthened his case.

Source: YEN.com.gh