PSG Suffer Double Injury Blow Before Bayern Clash

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have officially confirmed a significant setback ahead of their UEFA Champions League semi-final second-leg fixture against Bayern Munich. The French champions will be forced to compete without their star right-back, Achraf Hakimi, who has been ruled out of the upcoming decisive encounter on Wednesday night due to a thigh injury.

Hakimi and Chevalier Sidelined

The injury to Hakimi occurred during the first leg of the semi-final, where PSG secured a narrow 5–4 victory at the Parc des Princes. The Moroccan international sustained the injury following a physical collision with Bayern Munich defender Konrad Laimer. Despite the discomfort, Hakimi remained on the pitch until the final whistle, as the club had already exhausted their permitted substitutions. His resilience during that match was notable, as he provided the crucial assist for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s goal.

In an official medical update, the club stated: “Due to an injury to his right thigh sustained during the match against Bayern Munich, Achraf Hakimi will be sidelined for the next few weeks.”

The injury list grew longer on Wednesday morning when goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier also suffered a thigh injury during a team training session. Chevalier, who last featured for the first team in January, had been serving as the primary backup to Matvey Safonov. Safonov, the Russian goalkeeper, started the first leg and is expected to retain his position for the return leg in Germany, but the loss of Chevalier reduces the squad’s depth in a critical position.

Context and International Implications

Achraf Hakimi remains a cornerstone of the Moroccan national team and was ranked sixth in the previous Ballon d’Or standings. His fitness is of paramount importance not only to PSG but also to Morocco as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The tournament, hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is scheduled to begin on 11 June. Morocco, semi-finalists in 2022, are set to begin their campaign against Brazil on 13 June.

Domestic Standings and Schedule

Before travelling to Munich for the second leg, Luis Enrique’s side must turn their attention to domestic duties. PSG are scheduled to face Lorient in Ligue 1 this Saturday. Despite these injury concerns, the club remains in a commanding position in the French top flight. After 30 matches, PSG sit at the top of the table with 69 points, maintaining a six-point lead over their nearest rivals, Lens.

PSG Status and Key Match Data

The absence of Hakimi, in particular, poses a tactical challenge for Luis Enrique as he prepares to defend a one-goal lead at the Allianz Arena. With both Hakimi and Chevalier expected to be out for several weeks, the French side will need to rely on their squad depth to navigate this pivotal stage of the season.