Fabian Ruiz (foto: Getty Images)
PSG face internal tension before Liverpool clash as Fabian Ruiz misses the game, with reports suggesting frustration over his refusal to play through injury.
Paris Saint-Germain have been hit by late drama ahead of their Champions League showdown with Liverpool, with reports suggesting internal frustration over Fabian Ruiz.
The Spain international will miss the first leg of the quarter-final in Paris, officially due to a knee issue.
However, reports claim the situation inside the club is more complicated.
According to sources in France, some decision-makers at PSG believe Ruiz could have played through the discomfort, while the player has refused to take that risk.
The midfielder has made his stance clear.
He does not want to train or play while still feeling pain, a position that has reportedly caused tension within the squad just hours before a major European fixture.
PSG have confirmed that Ruiz will not be included in the squad, despite hopes he could contribute in such a high-stakes match.
His absence is significant.
The Euro 2024 winner is a key part of Luis Enrique’s midfield system, offering control, passing range, and experience on the big stage.
His last appearance came on January 20, in a defeat against Sporting CP, and what was initially described as a minor issue has now kept him out for weeks.
That timeline has only increased doubts inside the club.
Despite the tension, Luis Enrique has tried to calm the situation publicly.
“We have to wait for the player, there's no problem. We're trying to get the players back as soon as possible,” he said.
“Fabian hasn’t trained with the group yet. He’s improving, but he still needs time.”
The coach will now have to adjust his plans without one of his regular starters.
PSG do enter the game in strong form.
They have won their last four matches, including a dominant 8-2 aggregate win over Chelsea in the previous round.
Still, the timing of this issue creates an unwanted distraction ahead of one of their biggest games of the season.
There is also another blow.
Bradley Barcola, who has scored 12 goals this season, is also unavailable, further limiting attacking options.
On the other side, Liverpool arrive with a major boost.
Alexander Isak returns to the squad after recovering from injury, giving Arne Slot an extra attacking option for the clash.
The tie also carries recent history.
Liverpool won 1-0 in Paris last season, but PSG advanced after a penalty shootout and went on to lift the trophy.
Now, with tension inside the dressing room and key players missing, PSG face a serious test.
The focus shifts from preparation to response.
How they handle this moment could define their European campaign.