After nearly two years sidelined with an Achilles injury, Presnel Kimpembe could finally make his return for Paris Saint-Germain in their Coupe de France clash against fifth-tier FC Espaly on Wednesday.
A Long Road to Recovery
The 29-year-old last featured for PSG in February 2023 during a 3-0 Ligue 1 victory over Marseille, where he ruptured his Achilles tendon. Since then, Kimpembe has worked diligently to regain fitness and returned to full training last month.
Once a pivotal figure in PSG’s defense under Thomas Tuchel and Mauricio Pochettino, Kimpembe’s absence has been felt, even as the team adapted and remained competitive.
Luis Enrique’s Perspective
PSG manager Luis Enrique emphasized that the Coupe de France tie offers an ideal opportunity to reintegrate Kimpembe into the squad:
“Tomorrow is an ideal match for us to see certain players. After speaking to Presnel, he feels much better. He has been able to train with the team, and I can see in training that he is able to help the team.”
However, Enrique remained tight-lipped about his overall team selection, adding:
“We will release the squad list tomorrow morning. I would like my players to get that information first before all of you.”
Transfer Speculation Looms
Amid the excitement surrounding Kimpembe’s return, PSG faces uncertainty over the futures of Milan Skriniar and Randal Kolo Muani, who have been linked with Premier League moves to clubs like Arsenal, Tottenham, and Aston Villa. Enrique declined to comment on their potential departures, leaving their inclusion in the squad for the Espaly tie uncertain.
PSG’s Current Form and Challenges
PSG enters the Coupe de France game as heavy favorites, having maintained a seven-point lead atop Ligue 1 with a win over Saint-Etienne on Sunday. However, their form in the Champions League has been a cause for concern.
The Parisians sit 25th in the 36-team standings, with two crucial group-stage games against Manchester City and Stuttgart remaining. Six points are essential to advance to the knockout rounds, a task Luis Enrique admitted takes priority:
“Now we have the Champions League games coming up, we want to be in the best possible condition. Of course, there will be rotation throughout these games to give all players the time that we believe is appropriate.”
Respect for FC Espaly
Despite PSG’s status as overwhelming favorites, Enrique warned against complacency:
“This tie gives us another opportunity to show that when you play for PSG, there are no friendly matches or matches when you can take your foot off the gas.”
What’s Next?
Kimpembe’s return marks a significant boost for PSG as they aim to balance their domestic dominance with European ambitions. Fans will hope the defender’s reintegration is seamless, providing stability to a squad facing challenges on multiple fronts.
