AS Monaco’s Zakaria Sidelined for Crucial PSG Match

AS Monaco has encountered a significant setback just before their critical match against Paris Saint-Germain, as team captain Denis Zakaria (28) has been declared unfit to play due to injury.

Zakaria sustained a hamstring injury during pre-match preparations for the Toulouse FC game earlier this month. This injury caused him to miss not only that match but also the subsequent UEFA Champions League defeat to Arsenal and the recent draw with Stade de Reims. Despite hopes for his return in time for the PSG clash, these have now been dashed.

Coach Adi Hütter had previously indicated there was a chance Zakaria might be available for the PSG match, stating on Monday that a final decision would be made on Tuesday. However, the release of Monaco’s match squad has confirmed Zakaria’s absence.

Hütter had earlier suggested that if Zakaria wasn’t fit for the PSG game, he would likely be out for the remainder of 2024. This implies the midfielder will also miss the upcoming Coupe de France fixture against L’Union Saint-Jean. For the crucial PSG match, either Aleksandr Golovin or Soungoutou Magassa is expected to step in for the absent captain.

This development poses a significant challenge for AS Monaco as they prepare to face league leaders PSG in what promises to be a pivotal encounter at the Stade Louis II on Wednesday evening.