Enrique’s Dilemma at the Bilbao Fortress: PSG’s Backline in Peril
10 December 2025
Enrique’s Dilemma at the Bilbao Fortress
Paris Saint-Germain head coach Louis Enrique faces a growing defensive crisis ahead of a key Champions League trip to Athletic Bilbao at San Mamés. PSG need a result to stay on top of the group, but injuries and suspensions are thinning their backline.
In a matchday round that could define their campaign, PSG visit the Basque club in the sixth group-stage game. L'Equipe highlighted the stretch of absences in Enrique's squad, especially in defense.
Starting goalkeeper Lucas Chouvalier will miss the match with an ankle injury for the second time running. Hakimi, Beraldo and Lucas Hernandez are also out—Hernandez suspended after a red card against Tottenham—with Mendes reportedly in doubt. If Mendes can't play, the left-back slot is expected to be filled by a rookie, Seny Mayolo.
Reports suggested a PSG lineup featured Vitinha, Joao Neves, Le Kang-In, Kvaratskhelia and Barcola, as Dembele misses the trip due to illness. Paris Saint-Germain has 12 points in the group, while Bilbao sit on 4 after five rounds.
The image brewing from L'Équipe's preview adds another layer of drama, with PSG's battered defense facing Bilbao's vibrant attack.
Punchline 1: If PSG's defense were a house of cards, Bilbao would be the gust of wind that toppled it.
Punchline 2: At this rate, PSG might win a game by letting Bilbao score first and then apologizing to the net.
