PSG's possible starting XI for Ligue 1 encounter against Marseille

Defensive midfielder - Idrissa Gueye

Paris Saint-Germain v Manchester City: Group A - UEFA Champions League

Idrissa Gueye was arguably PSG's best player in September. He turned in a handful of impressive performances and scored three goals in four games. However, he was nowhere near his best in the matches against Rennes or RB Leipzig.

But Mauricio Pochettino is expected to trust his experienced defensive midfielder to do a good job against Marseille here. Gueye adds a lot of bite to PSG's midfield and has a reputation for being a thorn in the neck of the opposition.

Gueye is likely to be tasked with keeping Dimitri Payet quiet here. Payet has been in excellent form and is the creator-in-chief for Marseille. If Gueye performs at the level he is capable of, Marseille will struggle to create a lot of opportunities.

Central midfielder - Ander Herrera

Club Brugge KV v Paris Saint-Germain: Group A - UEFA Champions League

PSG found an unlikely hero in the opening stages of the 2021-22 season in Ander Herrera. The former Manchester United man has been industrious and always puts in a shift.

He is a dynamic midfielder renowned for his combative nature and that's exactly what PSG needs in a game like El Classique. Herrera has scored three goals and provided two assists in 10 Ligue 1 appearances so far this term.

Central midfielder - Marco Verratti

Paris Saint-Germain v RB Leipzig: Group A - UEFA Champions League

Marco Verratti's creativity in midfield will be crucial for Paris Saint-Germain here. His technical ability will be key to keeping possession in the midfield realms. The Italian will look to roam behind a very reliable frontline and look for runs and spaces to exploit.

Verratti was one of PSG's best players in the game against RB Leipzig and Mauricio Pochettino will be hoping for more of the same from the Italian.

Verratti's passing range and vision were crucial to PSG turning it around against RB Leipzig in midweek. The 28-year-old was excellent at dispensing his defensive duties as well, making three important blocks in addition to three tackles and two interceptions.