PARIS – Reeling from their mid-week Champions League upset, Paris Saint-Germain turn their attention back to domestic duties this Friday (23) as they visit Auxerre to kick off Round 19 of Ligue 1. With only one point separating them from league leaders Lens, a victory at the Stade Abbé-Deschamps would see the reigning European champions reclaim the top spot.
PSG currently sits on 42 points, trailing a Lens side that has shocked France with ten consecutive victories.
Luis Enrique Warns Against Complacency
Speaking ahead of the clash, manager Luis Enrique emphasized that despite Auxerre’s lower league position, the match will be far from a walkover.
“We are not yet where we want to be,” Enrique admitted. “Lens is on an incredible run, and we know our rivals usually set up defensively against us. Auxerre have caused problems for Lille and Marseille this season; we saw recently that we are not invincible. It takes immense focus to win every match.”
Squad Rotation: Hakimi Rests, Mbaye Returns
The Parisian squad sees some notable changes following the conclusion of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON):
- Achraf Hakimi: The star full-back has been rested for this fixture after a grueling campaign that saw him finish as runner-up with Morocco.
- Ibrahim Mbaye: In contrast, the young talent Mbaye returns to the squad brimming with confidence after winning the AFCON title with Senegal.
Enrique praised the youngster’s development: “I’m very happy for him. Winning an international trophy brings maturity and experience that will certainly benefit the club.”
Confirmed PSG Traveling Squad
- Goalkeepers: Chevalier, James, Marin.
- Defenders: Marquinhos, Beraldo, Zabarnyi, Lucas Hernández, Pacho.
- Midfielders: Vitinha, Zaïre-Emery, Nsoki.
- Forwards: Kvaratskhelia, Gonçalo Ramos, Dembélé, Barcola, Mbaye, Doué, Mayulu.
Le groupe pour le déplacement à Auxerre ! 💪🔴🔵#AJAPSG I #Ligue1 pic.twitter.com/UgWbNsdPKd
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_inside) January 23, 2026
Thiago Nuno is a football editor and analyst covering European leagues, match statistics, and transfer market trends.
