PSG's possible starting XI for Champions League encounter against Club Brugge

PSG boss Mauricio Pochettino
PSG boss Mauricio Pochettino

Right-back - Achraf Hakimi

Hakimi joined PSG from Inter Milan
Hakimi joined PSG from Inter Milan

Unlike the goalkeeping situation, this one is relatively clear. Achraf Hakimi is one of the best right-backs in the world, and will start on a regular basis for his club.

Paris Saint-Germain's travelling squad to Belgium contains only one recognised senior right-back in Hakimi. Thilo Kehrer can operate there if needed. Hakimi is a sensational player, a fearsome mixture of technical qualities and pace. He is renowned for his dynamic play on the wings.

The Morocco international joined PSG from Inter Milan this summer for £54 million. The 22-year-old has enjoyed a bright start to his career in France.


Centre-back - Thilo Kehrer

PSG defender Thilo Kehrer
PSG defender Thilo Kehrer

Presnel Kimpembe has been named in the traveling squad, but it remains to be seen whether he is fully fit.

With Sergio Ramos out injured, Thilo Kehrer looks likely to play alongside Marquinhos at centre-back. Kehrer cost Paris Saint-Germain £33.3 million in 2018 from Schalke, but has only displayed glimpses of his quality. He has been utilised as a squad player.

Kehrer provides some versatility, though. He can play as a right-back and a centre-back, and is a useful option on the bench. The Germany international was linked with a move away from Paris this summer. A few Bundesliga clubs were suggested as potential destinations.


Centre-back - Marquinhos

PSG skipper Marqinhos
PSG skipper Marqinhos

Marquinhos started the game against Clermont Foot, and will be one of the first names on the teamsheet against Club Brugge.

Marquinhos is the best defender at the club. One of the best centre-backs in the world, he is also the captain of Paris Saint-Germain. Many fans are eagerly waiting to see the 27-year-old play alongside a genuine superstar like Sergio Ramos.

Marquinhos is physically gifted and comfortable on the ball. The 27-year old is an undroppable first-team member, and can be utilised as a defensive midfielder if needed. The Brazil international is one of the most important players at Paris Saint-Germain.


Left-back - Nuno Mendes

PSG new boy Nuno Mendes in action for Portugal
PSG new boy Nuno Mendes in action for Portugal

Nuno Mendes made his first appearance for Paris Saint-Germain against Clermont Foot.

Mendes is regarded as one of the best young left-backs in the world. The 19-year-old was signed by PSG on an initial loan deal from Sporting CP. There is a very good chance that the deal will be made permanent very soon by his current club.

Mendes addresses a problematic position for PSG. Juan Bernat and Layvin Kurzawa have failed to impress in that position, while Abdou Diallo has been used as a makeshift left-back. The Portugal international has a very high ceiling.


Also Read: 5 players who deserve more game time in the 2021-22 Premier League season

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