The stage is set for a blockbuster UEFA Champions League semifinal return leg, as PSG travels to the Allianz Arena to face Bayern Munich on Wednesday, May 6. With the first leg ending in a thrilling 5-4 scoreline, both sides are preparing for another intense showdown—but at least five key players will be missing from the action.
Both teams entered the weekend on similar footing, each earning a home draw while fielding heavily rotated squads. But as the countdown to Wednesday night continues, the list of confirmed absentees is already taking shape.
For PSG, the biggest blow comes from the first leg itself. Star right back Achraf Hakimi suffered a hamstring injury in the dying moments of that match and has been ruled out for several weeks. The good news? He could be fit for a potential final on May 30 in Budapest—but only if his teammates can punch that ticket first.
Adding to PSG's woes, goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier picked up an injury in training the day after the first leg and will not travel to Munich. However, with Safonov firmly established as the starter, Chevalier's absence may not shift the tactical balance. Meanwhile, Quentin Ndjantou remains sidelined after five months out, and he will not be risked in such a high-stakes environment.
The real intrigue for PSG centers on player fitness. Manager Luis Enrique opted to rest several stars in the weekend's 2-2 draw with Lorient, leaving Marquinhos, Ousmane Dembele, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia on the bench. Nuno Mendes and Vitinha, both nursing minor injuries, were not even called up, while Safonov—despite late cramps in the first leg—should be good to go. Despite these niggles, the core of the squad is expected to be available for the crucial return leg.
On the Bayern Munich side, the most significant absence remains striker Serge Gnabry, who is set to miss several more months, including the upcoming World Cup. In his place, Jamal Musiala has stepped into the starting lineup and will be tasked with leading the attack once again.
With so much on the line and key players missing on both sides, Wednesday night's clash promises to be a test of depth, strategy, and resilience. The road to Budapest just got a little more complicated—and a lot more exciting.