The image presents a combined starting XI featuring players from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Tottenham Hotspur, curated for a hypothetical UEFA Super Cup clash. While it is not an official lineup, such combinations are often made by fans and analysts to compare squads and imagine the strongest possible team when blending two clubs. This lineup notably leans heavily toward PSG players, showcasing the perceived strength and depth of their squad. Let’s break down the selection in terms of formation, player roles, and the balance of representation between the two clubs.
Formation Overview
The setup appears to be a 4-3-3 formation, which is both modern and flexible, allowing for strong attacking play while maintaining midfield control. This system is a favorite among elite European clubs and suits the profiles of most players featured here.
Goalkeeper: Chevalier (PSG)
Lucas Chevalier is a surprise pick as the starting goalkeeper, considering neither club typically features him as a first-choice option. He’s a young and promising French goalkeeper who has impressed in Ligue 1. This choice could be based on potential or recent performances. Tottenham’s Guglielmo Vicario might be considered unlucky to miss out, especially given his solid performances in the Premier League.
PSG vs Tottenham UEFA Super Cup 2025: Full Teams & Starting Lineups
Defense: Mendes, Marquinhos, Romero, Hakimi
The backline consists of three PSG players and one from Tottenham:
- Nuno Mendes (PSG) is an explosive left-back known for his pace and attacking support. He’s one of the most talented young full-backs in Europe.
- -Marquinhos (PSG), the PSG captain, brings experience, composure, and leadership. His positioning and calmness under pressure make him an automatic choice.
- Cristian Romero (Tottenham) is the only Spurs player in the back four. The Argentine brings aggression and strong tackling to the lineup, balancing Marquinhos’ more measured style.
- Achraf Hakimi (PSG) takes the right-back spot with ease. His offensive contribution and incredible speed make him one of the best in the world in his position.
This defense is built for both resilience and forward thrust from the full-backs.
Midfield: Fabian Ruiz, Vitinha, João Neves
The midfield trio is entirely PSG-dominated, though one of them, João Neves, is not officially a PSG player but might be linked with a transfer:
- Fabian Ruiz is a versatile midfielder who offers passing range, control, and the ability to shoot from distance.
- Vitinha, creative and technically gifted, can link defense and attack, contributing with both goals and assists.
- João Neves is one of Benfica’s most promising talents and is included here presumably based on strong rumors of a move to PSG or high performance elsewhere.
This midfield balances defensive discipline with creative flair.
Attack: Kvaratskhelia, Dembélé, Doué
This front three is interesting, mixing speed, skill, and unpredictability:
- Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (Napoli) is featured here wearing a PSG badge, likely reflecting strong transfer speculation or a future move. Known for his dazzling dribbling and creativity, he’s one of Europe’s top young wingers.
- Ousmane Dembélé (PSG) leads the line centrally, though he’s more commonly used as a winger. His two-footedness and dribbling make him dangerous, but playing as a striker is unusual for him.
- Désiré Doué (Rennes/PSG rumored) is another rising talent whose inclusion seems based on potential. Fast and technically gifted, he could offer surprise elements on the right flank.
- Luis Enrique Deserves the Ballon d'Or, Says Marca: PSG Coach Called “Football’s Real Star
This attack is unconventional, relying more on creativity than pure striker instincts. It lacks a natural center-forward, which could be a tactical gamble.
Club Representation and Bias
Of the eleven players, nine are either from PSG or associated with them through transfer rumors. Only one confirmed Tottenham player, Cristian Romero, makes the cut. This suggests a strong bias toward PSG, possibly influenced by recent form, squad depth, or perceived quality. Notable Spurs players like Son Heung-min, James Maddison, and Vicario are absent despite their high-level performances.
Luis Enrique Deserves the Ballon d'Or, Says Marca: PSG Coach Called “Football’s Real Star
Tactical Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Fast, attacking full-backs in Mendes and Hakimi.
- Creative and technically gifted midfield.
- Explosive wingers who can beat defenders one-on-one.
Weaknesses:
- No natural striker; Dembélé may not thrive centrally.
- Lack of Premier League representation, especially in key attacking roles.
- Chemistry issues with so many newly linked players.
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