Kylian Mbappe is set to start Paris Saint Germain’s last 16 clash with Bayern Munich on the substitutes bench after recovering from a hamstring injury, it has been confirmed by French media.
The French striker, who currently sits fifth in the Ligue 1 top goalscoring charts, picked up an injury during a clash with Montpellier in what turned into a nightmare first half, with Mbappe missing two penalties before suffering his issue.
And fears immediately turned to the Champions League, which is the main aim of the French champions this season.
As per Le Parisien, however, the 23-year-old is fit enough to be amongst the substitutes for their clash with German giants Bayern Munich after being named among the travelling squad and being spotted in training on Monday.
“We’re not sure yet whether he will be on the match sheet,” said PSG boss Christophe Galtier on Monday.
Galtier added: “Kylian did the whole session today. We made the decision that he would train with everyone today.
“If he is on the match sheet, he will play.”
Kylian Mbappé makes PSG squad for Champions League game vs Bayern. pic.twitter.com/tTzYxL874w
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 13, 2023
Should Christophe Galtier wish to persevere with his usual 4-3-3 system, it is likely to be Hugo Ekitike that replaces his compatriot in the starting lineup, but in recent weeks PSG have opted more for a front two with an attacking midfielder behind, which could see Carlos Soler or Vitinha pushed behind Lionel Messi and Neymar in order to make the French side more solid defensively.
The return leg takes place in almost a month, so it is expected that barring any injuries re-occuring, Mbappe will be a part of the starting XI at the Allianz Arena in March.
