Predicted XI

Neymar back in from the start - How PSG could line-up against Angers

The Brazilian started the cup game against Marseille on the bench, but should be restored to the starting XI for league duties

10:00am on Friday 15th January 2021
By Martin Macdonald

PSG boss Mauricio Pochettino will welcome Neymar back into his starting line-up this weekend when the Ligue 1 champions take on Angers.

The former Barcelona star made his return from injury in the Trophee des Champions Final on Wednesday, coming off the bench to score the winning goal from the penalty spot with just five minutes of normal time remaining.

The goal saw PSG win 2-1, and secure not only their first silverware of the season but the first trophy of Pochettino's career.

Neymar played 25 minutes during the week, so should be fit enough to start versus Angers.

Idrissa Gueye missed the game against Marseille due to a stomach illness, but the issue isn't believed to be serious so he should be free to return if Pochettino wants to use him.

Danilo Pereira and Presnel Kimpembe only recently recovered from injury to feature on the bench during the week, but both are fit enough to start on Saturday.

Colin Dagba, Rafinha and Thilo Kehrer are all missing after testing positive for coronavirus, putting them into isolation.

PSG could be close to full strength against Angers, with Keylor Navas in goal behind a back four of Alessandro Florenzi, Marquinhos, Kimpembe, and Layvin Kurzawa.

Danilo might come back into the starting XI at the expense of Ander Herrera, featuring alongside Marco Verratti and Leandro Paredes.

The star trio of Neymar, Kylian Mbappe, and Angel Di Maria should start.