Valverde: PSG Are a Tough Nut to Crack, and Dembélé’s Absence Might Tilt the Scales

Ahead of the clash

Ernesto Valverde, the Athletic Bilbao coach, stressed his deep respect for Paris Saint-Germain ahead of their clash today in the Champions League group stage's sixth round at San Mamés.

Valverde spoke about the showdown at the San Mamés stadium: 'This is a decisive match for us, especially since we have collected only four points, so we are in great need of a win'.

The former Barcelona boss added: 'It will be a hard and exciting game; we must rise to the occasion because it is a decisive encounter. If we win, it will be a meaningful step; if we lose, well, we are Bilbao, and anything can happen in football'.

He then said: 'PSG is a physically and technically strong side, with high midfield dynamics; it will be difficult to match them for 90 minutes. They are a compact team with enormous capabilities'.

He continued: 'Paris Saint-Germain is the clear favourite to win the Champions League'.

Valverde then discussed the absence of Ousmane Dembele due to injury, saying: 'He is an exceptional player, I coached him at Barcelona when he was young, naturally gifted on the field'.

Valverde wrapped up: 'I am very happy for him to win the Ballon d'Or this year; I am lucky he won't be in the match, though I would have liked him to be there'.

PSG sit fourth in the table with 12 points, three points behind leaders Arsenal.

Punchline: If patience were a tactic, Valverde would file it away as a strategic asset.

Punchline: PSG may be the favorites, but in football the ball has a sense of humor and loves a good upset—especially at San Mamés.

Match context

PSG currently sit in fourth spot with 12 points, three behind Arsenal, highlighting the high stakes of this meeting in Group D.