The Champions League is delivering the drama again! Matchday 5 is underway, and all eyes are on the clashes across Europe. Tonight, AS Monaco is facing Cypriot champions Pafos in an early kick-off. But the big news coming out of the Monaco camp? Paul Pogba is starting on the bench once more.
Pogba's Return: A Slow Burn?
After making his return from injury with a brief appearance against Rennes on Saturday, fans were hoping to see Pogba back in the starting eleven. However, coach Sébastien Pocognoli seems to be taking a cautious approach, easing the French midfielder back into the squad. It's a frustrating situation for Monaco fans eager to see their star player shine in the Champions League.
Diatta's Champions League Dream Derailed
Adding to Monaco's squad complexities, Krépin Diatta has been excluded from the Champions League squad. Initially replacing the injured Denis Zakaria, Diatta has now lost his place following Zakaria's return. Coach Pocognoli expressed his disappointment, stating, "Krépin is a very important player for me... He’s one of the guys who’s definitely been performing at a very high level since I arrived." However, the decision was made before Pocognoli's arrival, leaving him to adapt. Monaco has the opportunity to revise its squad in January before the knockout stages.
Other Key Champions League Fixtures
While Pafos vs Monaco is an intriguing matchup, tonight's Champions League schedule is packed with blockbuster games. Arsenal hosts Bayern Munich in a top-of-the-table clash, with both teams boasting a perfect record in the competition so far. Other notable matches include Atletico Madrid vs Inter Milan and Paris Saint-Germain vs Tottenham. Football fans are in for a treat with a night of high-stakes action!
Tonight's Early Kick-Offs
- Pafos vs Monaco
- FC Copenhagen vs Kairat Almaty
Keep up with all the scores and updates throughout the night right here!