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The UEFA Champions League Round of 16 draw earlier this week set the matches for clubs around Europe aiming to advance to the quarter-final stage of the competition. One of the most intriguing of those encounters is Barcelona meeting Paris Saint-Germain.
The Ligue 1 title-holders have begun a new era in many ways. The summer departure of mercurial striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic and the arrival of manager Unai Emery have both changed many aspects of the club’s approach on the pitch.
The Parisians have been mostly successful thus far in the 2016-17 campaign, but it has by no means been perfect. Currently third in the domestic standings behind Nice and AS Monaco, PSG have not been as dominant in Ligue 1 as they have been for the past few seasons.
However, there is still an array of talented players within the squad that have the capability of defeating any opposition. Barcelona certainly present a difficult challenge, but Paris Saint-Germain can surprise many by eliminating the Blaugrana when the tournament resumes in 2017.
We look at three key areas that the club will need to focus on in accomplishing this tremendous objective.
Defensive midfield
Barcelona boast the greatest front-line in world football with Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar. The MSN trio can control the tempo of any match with their pace and quality on the ball. In order to find a victory over two legs, PSG will need strong play from their defence and central midfielders.
Captain Thiago Silva leads an organised back-line, but much of the responsibilities will fall to their midfielders. Marco Verratti, Thiago Motta and Blaise Matuidi will need to be in top form.
PSG will need to keep numbers behind the ball in order to slow down the Barcelona attack, especially in the first leg at home. With strong counter-attacking play and sharp passing, their defensive midfielders can play a crucial role in finding positive results.
The January transfer window
Paris Saint-Germain ownership have never been shy about spending money during the transfer periods. The upcoming month presents a time for them to do just that, while improving their position in Ligue 1 and being better prepared for Barcelona in the Champions League.
Attacking players like Kevin De Bruyne, Julian Draxler and Raheem Sterling have all been rumoured targets. Defensive reinforcements could improve their form as well.
Perhaps more so than in recent years, PSG’s January transfer window will have a massive effect on both their domestic and European prospects this season.
Edinson Cavani
Uruguayan forward Edinson Cavani has been a force since arriving at the French capital in the summer of 2013. His strength, positioning and scoring touch have seen impressive production during the current term.
Cavani has scored 22 goals across all competitions and has controlled several matches all on his own. In order for the club to keep pace with the likes of Barcelona, they will need their striker to be at his very best.
February could see several changes for both Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona before they meet in the Round of 16.
Players, confidence and injuries could all be quite different from how they are right now. But along with the current squad and possible improvements on the cards in January, Unai Emery and Paris Saint-Germain have the ability to defeat Barcelona in the Champions League.
