Paris Saint-Germain Travel to Barcelona Without Four Key Players.

The Champions League clash that many in Spain dubbed “the final that never was” is finally here. Barcelona host Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday night at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, high up on Montjuïc. The memory of Barça falling just short of a place in last season’s final—where PSG were waiting—still lingers, adding extra spice to this tie.

But the build-up has lost some of its glamour, with both sides missing important players. Barcelona are sweating on the fitness of Alejandro Balde and will definitely be without Raphinha, Fermín López, and goalkeeper Joan García.

PSG travel without four big names

For PSG, the absences are even more severe. It was already known that Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé would not be facing runner-up Lamine Yamal after a hamstring injury earlier this month. Young talent Désiré Doué also remains sidelined following an injury with France, while Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has joined the list, leaving Luis Enrique without his entire first-choice front three from last year’s final.

Adding to the blow, captain Marquinhos is also ruled out. The Brazilian has not recovered in time from an injury picked up last week.

Midfield boost for Enrique

There is, however, good news in midfield. Both Fabián Ruiz and João Neves were rested against Auxerre as precautions and are fit to return. Vitinha, who came off early in that match with muscle discomfort, has also been cleared to play. That gives PSG the chance to field their first-choice midfield trio.

Attacking alternatives

Despite being stripped of stars, Enrique still has options. Gonçalo Ramos is expected to lead the line, with Bradley Barcola likely starting out wide. Lee Kang-In provides another creative outlet and could complete the front three.