PSG vs Newcastle United F.C. are two of the most exciting teams in European football, known for their tactical prowess, star players, and passionate fanbases. Whenever these two sides meet, fans eagerly anticipate the lineups, as the teams boast an array of international talent. This article will provide an in-depth analysis of the expected lineups for PSG vs Newcastle United F.C., drawing from the latest available information and trends from recent matches.
Introduction to PSG vs Newcastle United
The clash between PSG and Newcastle United is one of great interest, given both teams’ aspirations to compete at the highest levels in European football. PSG, based in Paris, has long been a powerhouse in Ligue 1 and one of the top contenders in the UEFA Champions League. Their star-studded roster includes players like Kylian Mbappé, Neymar Jr., and Achraf Hakimi, among others.
On the other hand, Newcastle United has transformed in recent years, moving from a mid-tier Premier League club to a team competing for European spots under the ownership of the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund. With manager Eddie Howe at the helm, Newcastle has shown remarkable improvements, notably with players like Bruno Guimarães, Alexander Isak, and the experienced Kieran Trippier.
When PSG and Newcastle face off, their lineups are a matter of great discussion among fans and analysts alike. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect.
Expected PSG Lineup: Star Power in the Spotlight
Paris Saint-Germain boasts one of the most talented squads in European football, and their lineup against Newcastle United will be no different. Under manager Luis Enrique, PSG has continued to focus on attacking football, balancing their star attackers with a solid defence. Here is a look at the likely lineup for PSG in their upcoming match against Newcastle:
Formation: 4-3-3
PSG tends to use a 4-3-3 formation, providing them with flexibility in attack while maintaining a compact defensive structure. This system allows the team to control possession and overwhelm the opposition in wide areas.
Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma
Donnarumma, the 2021 UEFA Euro-winning goalkeeper for Italy, is PSG’s first-choice keeper. Donnarumma, who is 6’5″, is renowned for his ability to stop shots and his dominant presence in the penalty box. He will be crucial in ensuring PSG keeps a clean sheet against a potent Newcastle attack.
Defenders: Hakimi, Marquinhos, Skriniar, and Nuno Mendes
Achraf Hakimi (Right-back): Hakimi is one of the fastest full-backs in Europe and provides PSG with plenty of attacking width on the right flank. His pace and ability to overlap make him a dangerous threat for any opposition, including Newcastle.
Marquinhos (Center-back): PSG’s captain, Marquinhos, is the anchor of the defense. His leadership and intelligence make him a key figure at the heart of the defense, and his ability to read the game will be essential against a physical Newcastle side.
Milan Skriniar (Center-back): A summer signing from Inter Milan, Skriniar adds stability to the backline. Known for his aerial ability and strong tackles, Skriniar complements Marquinhos well and will have his hands full against the physicality of Newcastle’s forwards.
Nuno Mendes (Left-back): Mendes, a young and dynamic left-back, is another attacking outlet for PSG. His pace and dribbling make him a threat on the left side, contributing both defensively and going forward.
Midfield: Verratti, Ugarte, and Vitinha
Marco Verratti (Central Midfielder): As one of the best deep-lying playmakers in the world, Verratti is the engine of PSG’s midfield. His ability to control tempo, distribute passes, and break up opposition attacks makes him indispensable in big games like this.
Manuel Ugarte (Defensive Midfielder): Ugarte, who joined PSG from Sporting CP, brings energy and aggressiveness to the midfield. Known for his defensive capabilities and tenacity, Ugarte will help break down Newcastle’s counterattacks.
Vitinha (Central Midfielder): Vitinha offers creativity and dynamism in the midfield. His ability to carry the ball forward and link play will be crucial in providing service to PSG’s attacking players.
Forwards: Mbappé, Neymar, and Ousmane Dembélé
Kylian Mbappé (Left Wing): Mbappé is one of the best players in the world today. His blistering pace, dribbling skills, and finishing ability make him a constant threat. Mbappé’s movement off the ball and his ability to exploit spaces will put pressure on Newcastle’s defence.
Neymar Jr. (Center-forward): Neymar’s creativity and flair will be vital in unlocking Newcastle’s defence. As a free-spirited forward, Neymar has the freedom to drop deeper, create chances, and link up with PSG’s other attacking players.
Ousmane Dembélé (Right Wing): Dembélé’s pace, dribbling, and ability to cut inside make him a dangerous winger. His connection with the other forwards will be key, as he is capable of delivering dangerous balls into the box or taking on defenders himself.
Expected Newcastle United F.C. Lineup: A Balanced and Tactical Approach
Under manager Eddie Howe, Newcastle has been solid defensively while also making significant strides in their attacking play. The Magpies have been known to play a structured 4-3-3 formation, emphasizing pressing, quick transitions, and exploiting set pieces.
Formation: 4-3-3
Newcastle will likely use a 4-3-3 formation, similar to PSG’s setup, ensuring a balance between defence and attack. Their focus will be on keeping a compact shape and counter-attacking when the opportunity arises.
Goalkeeper: Nick Pope
Nick Pope is Newcastle’s first-choice goalkeeper and has been in superb form since joining the club. Pope’s strong shot-stopping abilities, commanding presence in the air, and leadership at the back will be crucial in limiting PSG’s attacking threats.
Defenders: Trippier, Schär, Burn, and Targett
Kieran Trippier (Right-back): Trippier is one of the best right-backs in the Premier League, offering both defensive solidity and attacking flair. His ability to deliver precise crosses and set-piece deliveries makes him a key figure for Newcastle.
Fabian Schär (Center-back): Schär is an experienced and composed central defender. His ability to read the game and make timely interceptions will be vital in dealing with PSG’s attacking threats.
Dan Burn (Center-back): Burn’s height and physicality make him a key player in aerial duels. He will need to stay disciplined to counter PSG’s attacking force, especially when defending set-pieces.
Matt Targett (Left-back): Targett is known for his defensive reliability and work rate. He will likely be tasked with containing PSG’s attacking runs down the left flank, especially from players like Mbappé.
Midfield: Guimarães, Joelinton, and Longstaff
Bruno Guimarães (Central Midfielder): Guimarães is the heartbeat of Newcastle’s midfield. His passing range, intelligence, and defensive capabilities allow him to control games and break up opposition attacks. Against PSG, he will need to nullify the influence of Verratti and Ugarte.
Joelinton (Central Midfielder): Joelinton’s energy and strength provide Newcastle with a box-to-box presence in midfield. He is essential in linking up play and helping with defensive duties, especially when transitioning to attack.
Sean Longstaff (Central Midfielder): Longstaff’s work ethic and tackling abilities make him a key part of Newcastle’s midfield engine. He will need to break up PSG’s attacking moves and disrupt their rhythm.
Forwards: Isak, Wilson, and Almirón
Alexander Isak (Striker): Isak has been a standout performer for Newcastle, and his pace, technical ability, and movement will be crucial in attacking PSG’s defence. His ability to hold up the ball and link up play will also be important.
Callum Wilson (Striker): Wilson offers a more physical presence in attack and will be tasked with challenging PSG’s defenders in aerial duels. His finishing ability is also something to watch, as he is capable of punishing any defensive lapses.
Miguel Almirón (Right Wing): Almirón’s pace and directness make him a threat on the right wing. He is capable of taking on defenders and delivering dangerous crosses, which could catch out PSG’s full-backs.
Key Battles in the PSG vs Newcastle United Match
Mbappé vs Trippier
One of the most intriguing battles will be between PSG’s Kylian Mbappé and Newcastle’s Kieran Trippier. Mbappé’s raw pace and technical ability will test Trippier’s defensive skills, while Trippier’s crossing ability will be key in providing service to Newcastle’s forwards.
Verratti vs Guimarães
Marco Verratti and Bruno Guimarães are two of the best midfielders in Europe, known for their ability to dictate play. The battle between these two will likely determine the flow of the game, with both players aiming to impose their rhythm on the match.
Neymar vs Burn
Dan Burn will be tasked with containing Neymar’s skill and creativity. Neymar’s ability to drop deep and link up play could cause problems for Burn, especially if Newcastle fails to maintain a compact defensive shape.
FAQs
Will Mbappé play against Newcastle United?
Yes, Kylian Mbappé is expected to feature for PSG in their match against Newcastle. As one of the club’s star players, he is a crucial part of their attacking setup.
How will Newcastle cope with PSG’s attacking threat?
Newcastle will rely on their disciplined defensive structure and counter-attacking style. The key will be limited spaces for PSG’s attackers while being clinical on the counter.
Who is PSG’s captain in the game?
PSG’s captain is Marquinhos, who will lead the team from the centre-back position.
Can Newcastle upset PSG at the Parc des Princes?
Newcastle has the potential to cause an upset, but they will need to be at their best defensively and take advantage of any set-piece opportunities to challenge PSG.
In Summary
The PSG vs Newcastle United United lineup presents an exciting clash of tactics, star power, and footballing philosophies. With both teams boasting exceptional players in key positions, the match is sure to be an exhilarating encounter. Fans of both sides will be eagerly watching to see how their teams shape up and how the key battles unfold on the pitch. Whether it’s Mbappé’s blistering pace or Newcastle’s disciplined defence, the match will undoubtedly be one to remember.
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