Barca vs PSG: Clash Looms! 1000 'Radical' Fans Incoming!
Tension is building in Barcelona ahead of the Champions League clash between FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)! The Mossos d'Esquadra, the Catalan police force, are preparing a major security operation due to the anticipated arrival of approximately 1,000 'radical' PSG supporters.
Security Alert: High-Risk Fans Expected
According to Inspector Andreu González, who is coordinating security for the match, this is a "maximum" security deployment. While around 3,000 PSG fans are expected in total, authorities are particularly concerned about the 1,000 'radical' supporters, who are believed to be potentially dangerous and seeking confrontation. These individuals are described as being associated with far-right or far-left ideologies and known for engaging in clashes with local radical groups.
Potential Trouble Spots
The influx of fans is expected between 12:00 and 18:00, with potential movement in tourist areas like the Litoral zone, Las Ramblas, and Plaza Catalunya. The Mossos plan to gather the French supporters at Plaza Espanya to ensure a "safe and orderly" route to the Estadi Olímpic.
The security operation is being conducted in collaboration with French police intelligence services.
On the Pitch: Flick's Line-Up Revealed
Meanwhile, on the field, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has revealed his starting eleven for the crucial match. Lamine Yamal returns to the starting line-up after his appearance against Real Sociedad. Eric Garcia will partner Cubarsí in central defence, while Ferran Torres will lead the attack. Lewandowski starts on the bench, with Rashford continuing on the left wing.
- Barcelona Starting XI: Szczesny, Koundé, Eric Garcia, Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, De Jong, Pedri, Olmo, Lamine Yamal, Rashford, Ferran Torres.
- PSG Starting XI: Chevalier, Hakimi, Zabarnyi, Pacho, Nuno Mendes, Neves, Vitinha, Fabián Ruiz, Mbaye, Mayulu, Barcola.
Barcelona are missing key players like Joan Garcia, Gavi, Fermín, and Raphinha, as well as Ter Stegen. PSG are without Dembélé, Doué, Kvaratskhelia, and Marquinhos. However, Vitinha has recovered from a knock and is fit to start.