Key PSG duo pick up injuries ahead of Barcelona clash – Luis Enrique issues update

Vitinha and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia were both part of the Ballon d’Or top 30 list last week, with the former notably finishing third in the final ranking, ahead of Raphinha.

However, as PSG gear up for their Champions League tie against Barcelona on October 1, both players picked up injuries this weekend against Auxerre.

Around the half-hour mark, Vitinha played a key role in setting up Ilya Zabarnyi for the PSG opener. But moments later, he was taken off abruptly, with many fearing a potential injury.

Meanwhile, Kvaratskhelia picked up a knock as well, notably putting his hand on the back of his thigh during the first half. He was replaced at the break, as he made way for Bradley Barcola.

Luis Enrique on Kvaratskhelia and Vitinha

After the game, coach Luis Enrique spoke to the press regarding the fitness of Vitinha and Kvaratskhelia, offering a key update.

Enrique revealed that Vitinha was taken off due to discomfort, and therefore, it was a precautionary measure.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia picked up a knock in PSG’s most recent game. (Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images)

“I replaced him because he had some physical problems and we didn’t want to take any risks,” he said (h/t SPORT).

The Spaniard offered a comprehensive update on the two players, adding, “I can’t say anything. It’s not a positive thing.”

“But we have to wait for what the medical staff says tomorrow or the day after tomorrow to know what types of injuries they both have,” he added.

The potential absence of Kvaratskhelia and Vitinha could serve as a massive blow for PSG, especially at a time when the likes of Desire Doue, Ousmane Dembele, Joao Neves and Marquinhos are also unavailable.

Barcelona, too, though, are in a soup, having confirmed recent injuries to four first-team stars, including goalkeeper Joan Garcia and superstar Raphinha.