Paris, France – Barcelona is preparing for a high-stakes clash against Paris Saint-Germain this Tuesday evening at the Parc des Princes. The match is part of the third round of the league phase in the 2026-2027 UEFA Champions League.
The Catalan side aims to continue its positive run of form this season, but it heads into this encounter facing challenges due to defensive absences. Both Jules Koundé and Eric García have been ruled out through injury, leaving German manager Hansi Flick with limited options for configuring his defensive line.
According to Spanish press reports, Egyptian forward Hamza Abdel Karim is expected to start the match against Paris Saint-Germain on the bench. This comes after his return to the first-team squad in preparation for the highly anticipated encounter.
The Egyptian player had been left out of Barcelona’s squad for their recent La Liga match against Real Betis, a decision based on tactical/technical grounds. However, he has returned to Flick’s plans for this important European encounter.
Whether Hamza Abdel Karim participates remains dependent on the coaching staff’s decisions and how the match unfolds. This comes as Barcelona seeks to secure a positive result away from home.
Barcelona’s predicted lineup against Paris Saint-Germain
--------------------------------------------------------
According to the lineup published by the Spanish newspaper “Mundo Deportivo,” Barcelona is expected to play the match with the following players:
Goalkeeper: Juan García.
Defense: Xavi Espart, Pau Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, João Cancelo.
Midfield: Rodri, Pedri, Fermín López.
Attack: Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Anthony Gordon.