Rennes vs PSG Preview: Predictions, Team News, and Lineups

Rennes faces a significant challenge as they prepare to meet Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in a crucial Ligue 1 clash. The match is set to take place at Roazhon Park, marking the opening fixture of round 22 in Ligue 1.

Context and Team News

Rennes recently dismissed manager Habib Beye after a series of disappointing performances. The team has failed to secure a win in their last five matches, suffering four losses, including a 3–1 defeat against Lens. Esteban Lepaul had given Rennes an early lead, but ultimately, they could not maintain their advantage.

Reserve team head coach Sebastien Tambouret is expected to oversee the match against PSG, as Franck Haise emerges as a potential replacement for Beye. Rennes currently sits sixth in the Ligue 1 standings, only two points away from fifth-placed Lille and just one point above seventh-placed Strasbourg, making this match vital for their European ambitions.

Rennes’ Recent Form

• Current Ligue 1 Position: 6th
• Last Five Matches: 1 Draw, 4 Losses
• Recent Home Performance: 4 Wins, 1 Loss in last six matches

PSG’s Dominance

In stark contrast, PSG arrives in excellent form, having won their last seven league games. Their most recent victory was a 5–0 thrashing of Marseille, with Ousmane Dembele scoring two goals. PSG aims to extend their lead at the top of the table, currently vying for a five-point cushion if they manage a win against Rennes.

Their attacking prowess has been evident, as they have scored two or more goals in six of their last seven matches. Despite the solid form, all three of their recent away victories came by just a single goal, underscoring the competitive nature of Ligue 1.

PSG’s Recent Form

• Current Ligue 1 Position: 1st
• Last Seven Matches: 7 Wins
• Recent Away Performance: 3 Straight Wins

Injuries and Expected Lineups

Rennes will be without key players due to injuries. Defender Jeremy Jacquet may require shoulder surgery, while center-back Abdelhamid Aït Boudlal is also sidelined with a thigh injury. Other players missing include Przemysław Frankowski and Djaoui Cisse, both out for the third consecutive match. Goalkeeper Brice Samba’s situation is uncertain due to a fallout with the previous manager.

Potential Rennes Lineup

• Brice Samba
• Seidu, Rouault, Brassier
• Nordin, Camara, Rongier, Merlin, Tamari
• Lepaul, Embolo

On the PSG side, midfielder Fabian Ruiz continues to recover from a knee injury, while winger Quentin Ndjantou is out with a hamstring issue. Right-back Achraf Hakimi is expected to return after a suspension, enhancing their defensive options.

Potential PSG Lineup

• Safonov
• Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes
• Zaire-Emery, Vitinha, Neves
• Kvaratskhelia, Dembele, Barcola

Match Prediction

Considering the contrasting team dynamics, PSG is anticipated to capitalize on Rennes’ struggles. The predictions lean towards a PSG victory, with a likely score of 3–1. However, Rennes may still pose a threat as they have managed to score in seven of their last eight home matches.