The 2025-26 UEFA Champions League group stage features its second matchday, with a key game between PSG and Barcelona. Ahead of the match, PSG defender Achraf Hakimi had a message for Barça’s young player Lamine Yamal.
During his pre-match press conference, Hakimi mentioned that although he won’t be directly facing Yamal, the 18-year-old will be challenged by Nuno Mendes, whom he called “the best left-back in the world.”
“Lamine is not on my side, but he will have to go up against the best left-back in the world in Nuno Mendes,” Hakimi stated. “Nuno is capable of stopping him, as he has proven before with other similar attackers. He is well-prepared.”
Hakimi referred to the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League final, where Mendes played a crucial role in preventing Spain’s attacks, including from Yamal, and even scored in that game.
Lamine Yamal of Spain is challenged by Nuno Mendes of Portugal. (Lars Baron/Getty Images)
“Our team’s strength is how we support each other,” Hakimi added. “We will try to assist Nuno, ensuring he isn’t left in one-on-one situations, because we know what Lamine can do there.”
Injury updates for both teams
Both PSG and Barcelona face significant injury issues for this important clash. PSG manager Luis Enrique will be without key players Ousmane Dembele, Desire Doue, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, along with captain Marquinhos.
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick is also missing several players. Raphinha and goalkeeper Joan Garcia were injured in a recent LaLiga match against Real Oviedo, adding to the absence of Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Gavi, and Fermin Lopez. However, the return of star Lamine Yamal is a positive note, as he is expected to start in this crucial game.