Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Vitinha has returned to training and is fit for the club's Champions League semi-final first leg against Bayern Munich on Tuesday, according to Le Parisien. The 24-year-old Portuguese international had been sidelined with a heel injury sustained during the Ligue 1 match against Lyon on April 21. His availability completes manager Luis Enrique's squad, with no other players reported absent ahead of the crucial European tie.
Vitinha's recovery is a significant boost for PSG as they prepare to host the German giants at the Parc des Princes. The midfielder, often described as the team's metronome, is a key component in Luis Enrique's system, responsible for dictating the tempo and linking play from deep positions. His potential inclusion from the start remains a decision for the coaching staff, but his presence in training marks a positive step for the French champions.
The timing of his return is fortuitous, following the recent comebacks of Fabian Ruiz and Nuno Mendes, who both featured in the 4-1 win over Angers last week. This means Luis Enrique has a full complement of players to choose from for one of the biggest matches of the season. In contrast, Bayern Munich will be without defender Raphael Guerreiro for both legs of the semi-final due to injury.
Since his move from Porto in the summer of 2022 for a reported fee of around 40 million euros, Vitinha has grown into a pivotal figure in the PSG midfield. His technical security and vision have been particularly important in European competition this season. His absence was felt in the latter stages of the Lyon match, and his availability now provides a major tactical option for the manager against a high-calibre Bayern midfield.
The fixture represents a critical juncture in PSG's season, with the club aiming to reach its first Champions League final since 2020. Vitinha's role in managing possession and providing defensive cover in the centre of the park could be vital in establishing control over the two-legged tie. His return solidifies PSG's midfield options at a moment when squad depth is paramount.
