The new season kicks off with a classic matchup as Paris Saint-Germain faces off against Aston Villa, continuing the tradition of the European champions showdown.
Last year’s Champions League winners, PSG, are the current title holders after defeating Tottenham on penalties last year. They’re eager for more glory after overcoming Arsenal in a similar fashion in Budapest.
Meanwhile, Villa aims to end PSG’s reign over English teams in finals, having secured their spot in this prestigious match by winning the Europa League in a commanding 3-0 victory against Freiburg.
This match also features some exciting reunions; Villa manager Unai Emery will be up against the team he led to a Ligue 1 title in the 2017/18 season, while Lucas Digne will confront his former team, having just returned to PSG over the weekend.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Super Cup clash.
The highly anticipated Super Cup match between PSG and Aston Villa kicks off at 8 PM BST on Wednesday, August 12, at the Red Bull Arena in Salzburg, Austria.
How can I watch it?
In the UK, viewers can watch the match live on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate, with coverage starting at 7 PM BST. The match will also be streamed on HBO Max.
Team news
PSG’s manager Luis Enrique has a fully fit squad at his disposal, with several players returning from their post-World Cup breaks. However, Ousmane Dembele, Bradley Barcola, and Achraf Hakimi might not be ready to start. The only noticeable injury concern is Nuno Mendes, who recently had a minor muscle issue while playing for Portugal. Digne could potentially play against his former club if Enrique decides to tread cautiously.
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On the other hand, Villa is facing multiple injury challenges, with Amadou Onana, Johan Manzambi, and Leon Bailey all ruled out. There are also worries regarding the fitness of Emi Martínez, Ezri Konsa, and Ollie Watkins, while John McGinn is being evaluated after a knee issue. New addition Alejandro Garnacho sustained a facial injury during a friendly against BG Pathum United but may be ready for his competitive debut.
Predicted line-ups
Aston Villa XI: Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Torres, Maatsen; Gomes, Kamara; Buendia, McGinn, Garnacho; Watkins.
PSG XI: Safonov; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes; Beraldo, Neves, Vitinha, Zaire-Emery; Mbaye, Dembele, Kvaratskhelia.