European club football kicks off this Wednesday as Paris Saint-Germain, fresh off their first Champions League win, face Europa League champions Tottenham Hotspur in the UEFA Super Cup final in Udine, Italy.
A Historic Season for PSG
The 2024-25 campaign will be remembered as one of PSG’s most successful seasons. Under Luis Enrique, the Parisians won an unprecedented domestic treble: Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and Trophée des Champions. They also lifted the Champions League trophy for the first time. Their impressive 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in Munich set a record for the largest margin of victory in a Champions League final, securing their place in European football history.
Different Pre-Season Journeys
PSG have not yet played a pre-season friendly because of their late finish last season. In contrast, Tottenham, with new head coach Thomas Frank, completed a six-match warm-up schedule. Spurs went unbeaten until a 4-0 loss to Bayern Munich in their final game.
Key Absences for Both Sides
For PSG, the goalkeeping situation is uncertain. Gianluigi Donnarumma is expected to leave, and Lille’s Lucas Chevalier is set to take his place. Willian Pacho and Lucas Hernandez return from suspension, but midfielder Joao Neves will miss out due to a FIFA ban.
Tottenham are facing significant injury concerns. Playmaker James Maddison is out for most of the season after tearing his ACL. He joins long-term absentees Dejan Kulusevski and Radu Dragusin on the sidelines. Left-back Destiny Udogie is also doubtful for this match and the Premier League opener against Burnley.
Predicted Lineups
- Paris Saint-Germain:
Chevalier; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Nuno Mendes; Zaire-Emery, Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz; Doue, Dembele, Kvaratskhelia
- Tottenham Hotspur:
Vicario; Pedro Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Spence; Bentancur, Palhinha, Sarr; Johnson, Richarlison, Kudus
