Here we go, then: The annual Paris Saint-Germain do-or-die-moment in the Champions League has arrived, but this time it's here earlier than usual. Traditionally, the tension for the French champions when it comes to their European hopes peaks somewhere in February or March, and generally ends with a capitulation of some sort.
This season, though, the nerves have kicked in before the turn of the year. Ahead of the final matchday of the group stages, PSG are yet to secure qualification for the knockout rounds. Their remit, though, is fairly clear: Win away at already-qualified Borussia Dortmund and they will be through, and as winners of the 'Group of Death' to boot. A draw might also be good enough depending on results elsewhere, while even a defeat might not cost them their place, though that feels unlikely.
Either way, a team that was as expensively-assembled as Luis Enrique's really shouldn't be in this position. Regardless of the talent available to the PSG boss, however, all eyes will be on one man to step up and ensure the week doesn't end with the whole of Europe once again enjoying the misfortune of the continent's great underachievers.
Despite all the rumours and bids, both accepted and rejected, Kylian Mbappe remained a PSG player during the summer of 2023. And while he remains he contracted to PSG, Mbappe's priority is to win the Champions League for his hometown club. On Wednesday, though, he will be charged with leading his side to the bare minimum — getting out of the group stage.
.png?auto=webp&format=pjpg&width=640&quality=60)
