Paris Saint-Germain have been hit by a major injury setback following their thrilling 4-2 victory over Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. The French champions are now facing concerns over several important players as they prepare for their upcoming matches.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Ousmane Dembélé and captain Marquinhos all suffered injuries during the victory at the Parc des Princes. The situation has raised concerns about the team’s squad depth, especially with important domestic and European fixtures ahead.
Nuno Mendes is also on the injury list after suffering a thigh problem in PSG’s Ligue 1 victory over Strasbourg on October 17. His absence adds to the challenges facing head coach Luis Enrique.
Kvaratskhelia Suffers Serious ACL Injury
The biggest concern for PSG is the injury to Georgian winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. The club confirmed on Wednesday that the attacker suffered a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee during the match against Barcelona.
Kvaratskhelia is scheduled to undergo surgery in the coming days. An ACL injury can require several months of recovery, although his exact return date has not yet been announced.
The winger has become an important part of PSG’s attacking system, using his pace, dribbling ability and creativity to trouble opposition defenders. Losing him for an extended period would be a significant blow to the team’s ambitions this season.
Luis Enrique will now have to consider alternative attacking options while Kvaratskhelia begins his recovery.
Dembélé and Marquinhos Also Sidelined
PSG’s problems do not end with Kvaratskhelia. Ousmane Dembélé and captain Marquinhos also picked up injuries during the Champions League encounter.
Dembélé suffered an injury to his left thigh and was forced off during the first half. His absence could affect PSG’s attacking movement, speed and ability to create goalscoring opportunities.
Marquinhos, meanwhile, sustained an injury to his right thigh. The Brazilian defender is a key figure in PSG’s defence, and his leadership could be particularly important during a difficult period for the squad.
According to the club’s medical update, both players will remain under treatment over the coming weeks. PSG have not announced exact return dates for either player.
The coaching staff will need to monitor their recovery carefully before deciding when they can return to competitive action.
Nuno Mendes Adds to PSG’s Injury Problems
Left-back Nuno Mendes is another important player facing fitness concerns. He suffered a thigh injury during PSG’s 3-1 victory over Strasbourg on October 17 and was expected to be sidelined for several weeks.
Mendes offers pace, defensive strength and attacking support from the left flank. His ability to move forward and create opportunities makes him an important part of PSG’s tactical approach.
With Mendes unavailable alongside the other injured players, Luis Enrique may need to make changes to his defensive structure and manage the remaining squad members carefully.
Can Luis Enrique Manage the Injury Crisis?
Despite the injury concerns, PSG have shown that they remain capable of producing strong performances. Their 4-2 victory over Barcelona demonstrated their attacking quality and ability to compete at the highest level.
However, losing several key players in a short period could test the team’s depth. The challenge will be to maintain consistency while giving other members of the squad opportunities to step up.
PSG will also need to balance their domestic commitments with their European ambitions. The medical team’s handling of the injured players will be important in determining when they can return.
Supporters will be hoping for positive recovery updates, particularly regarding Kvaratskhelia’s long-term rehabilitation.
Conclusion
Paris Saint-Germain have paid a heavy price for their impressive victory over Barcelona, with injuries to Kvaratskhelia, Dembélé and Marquinhos adding to Nuno Mendes’ existing absence.
While Kvaratskhelia faces surgery for a serious ACL injury, Dembélé and Marquinhos are expected to receive treatment over the coming weeks. Mendes is also recovering from a thigh problem.
The coming weeks will test PSG’s squad depth and Luis Enrique’s ability to adapt. The club will hope its available players can maintain their strong form while the injured stars work towards their respective returns.
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