Paris Saint-Germain began training on Monday with a significantly reduced squad, as many players are still on extended leave following their participation in the World Cup. According to L’Équipe, only nine players were present for the first session under head coach Luis Enrique – three goalkeepers and six outfield players, including youth prospects Alessandro Longoni and Quentin Ndjantou.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Matveï Safonov were among those absent, with the club having granted its World Cup participants a four-week holiday following their respective teams’ elimination from the tournament. This decision comes after a demanding two seasons for many PSG players, including participation in the Club World Cup which limited the opportunity for a substantial break.
Players such as Willian Pacho of Ecuador and Ibrahim Mbaye of Senegal are expected to return within the week. A further group, including Vitinha, João Neves, Nuno Mendes, Marquinhos, and Achraf Hakimi, will follow. Those who reached the semi-finals of the World Cup – Ousmane Dembélé, Bradley Barcola, Désiré Doué, Warren Zaïre-Emery, Lucas Hernandez, and Fabián Ruiz – are anticipated to rejoin the squad between August 8th and 10th, ahead of the Super Cup and the Champions Trophy.
Meanwhile, PSG have reportedly ended their pursuit of Yan Diomandé. The club has withdrawn from negotiations for the player, though the reasons for this decision remain unclear. This comes after significant interest in the player, with reports circulating regarding a potential transfer. The move leaves PSG looking at other options to bolster their squad ahead of the new season. The reduced numbers at the start of training highlight the impact of recent international commitments on the club’s preparations.
