I know, I know, I predicted Edinson Cavani would return to the starting lineup on November 1 against Dijon FCO only for the Uruguayan to sit on the bench until late in the second half. This time is different though.
Thomas Tuchel released his 19-man squad for the away match against Stade Brestois on Saturday and there were some notable absentees.
Neymar Jr., Ander Herrera, Thilo Kehrer, Kylian Mbappé, and Thomas Meunier are all unavailable for the trip to the Stade Francis-Le Blé to face the ninth-place team in Ligue 1.
With so many attackers out, there is no choice but for Thomas Tuchel to start El Matador and he confirmed as much at his pre-match press conference.
Tuchel on Edinson Cavani: "He is disappointed as he is used to starting every match & always being in the XI. Being a substitute for a few weeks makes a big difference. However, his mentality is good, he is a superb professional & should start vs. Brest." #SB29PSG
— Jonathan Johnson (@Jon_LeGossip) November 8, 2019
How will the rest of the team look? Tuchel will likely go with a strong starting XI after the embarrassing loss to last-place Dijon. Here is how I think the German tactician will set up his team against Les Ty’ Zefs:
I’m looking forward to the return of Pablo Sarabia to the starting lineup. The Spaniard received plenty of playing time to start the season but has been sent to the bench with the return of Kylian Mbappé. With the Frenchman out against Brest, Sarabia will have an opportunity to impress.
How Idrissa Gueye bounces back from his lackluster performance against Club Brugge last Wednesday will be interesting to watch as well. I don’t expect the former Everton FC midfielder to put in two poor performances in a row.
Finally, Mauro Icardi is in the squad and while he’s battling a slight knock, he could theoretically play. Hopefully, Cavani can score a goal (or two) and not make Tuchel bring on the Argentine in his place. Not only would it mean Icardi couldn’t rest, but it would be a blow to Cavani’s confidence.
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