Rennes vs Paris Saint-Germain: Prediction, Team News, and Lineups Preview
In a crucial matchup in Ligue 1, Rennes will host league leaders Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) at Roazhon Park. This opening fixture of round 22 comes on the heels of significant turmoil for Rennes, who recently parted ways with their manager, Habib Beye, following a series of disappointing results. The team suffered a 3–1 defeat against Lens, marking their fifth consecutive game without a win.
Rennes’ Recent Struggles
Rennes has faced a challenging season, with their latest stretch including four losses and one draw over their past five matches. The dismissal of Beye was driven by mounting pressure from fans and management alike, with the team now at risk of slipping out of European competition. They currently sit sixth in the league, just one point ahead of seventh-placed Strasbourg and two points behind Lille in fifth.
Team Updates
Rennes will enter this clash with notable injuries. Defender Jeremy Jacquet may require season-ending shoulder surgery, and center-back Abdelhamid Aït Boudlal is sidelined with a thigh injury. Additionally, Przemysław Frankowski and Djaoui Cisse remain unavailable, and goalkeeper Brice Samba’s future with the team is uncertain following a fallout with the previous coach.
PSG’s Form and Expectations
In stark contrast, Paris Saint-Germain arrives in excellent form. The team recently thrashed Marseille 5–0, extending their win streak to seven consecutive league matches. This impressive run includes a prior 5–0 victory over Rennes, and Louis Enrique’s side is eager to maintain their momentum.
Player Highlights
- Ousmane Dembele scored twice against Marseille, bringing his total to seven goals this season.
- Fabian Ruiz remains out with a knee injury, while Quentin Ndjantou is sidelined with a hamstring issue.
- Achraf Hakimi is expected to return after serving a suspension, bolstering the defense.
Match Outlook
Rennes has found some solace in their home performance, losing just one of their last six games at Roazhon Park. However, given PSG’s robust attacking display and Rennes’ defensive struggles—having conceded three goals in their recent performances—this match promises to be a compelling matchup.
Predictions
With contrasting fortunes heading into the match, El-Balad predicts a victory for PSG, likely by a score of 3-1. The hosts may manage to find the net, considering they have scored in seven of their last eight home games, but overall, PSG appears to have the upper hand in this encounter.
