The 2025-2026 Champions League draw has presented Paris Saint-Germain with a hellish journey, to say the least. Already weakened by a sluggish start to last season’s league campaign, the capital club finds itself facing an even more formidable challenge this time around: an exceptionally dense group, where every match could turn into a trap.
Because PSG will have to battle against European giants, starting with Bayern Munich and FC Barcelona. Two epic clashes that are already sending shivers down the spines of fans. The match against Bayern reawakens painful memories of past eliminations, when German discipline often forced the Parisians to bow. As for Barcelona, the historic rivalry with the Catalan club, marked by unforgettable evenings—from the famous “Remontada” to Paris’s triumph at the Camp Nou in 2021—promises a new episode rich in dramatic tension.
Adding to these two high points is the reunion with Tottenham Hotspur. Just a few weeks ago, the two clubs engaged in a fierce battle in the European Super Cup. While Paris emerged victorious, Spurs showed they could push the French champions to their limits. This prestigious duel is already shaping up to be one of the turning points of this group stage.
But the danger isn’t limited to the giants. Newcastle United, buoyed by exceptional popular fervor at Saint James’ Park, dreams of confirming its return to the European stage. Athletic Bilbao, with its unique philosophy and its Basque warriors, is never afraid to face the big guns. And what about Bayer Leverkusen, crowned German champions in 2024, whose explosive play is capable of destabilizing any defense? Add to this Atalanta Bergamo, an unpredictable tactical machine, and Sporting Lisbon, the Portuguese champions, whose young talents always shine on the big stage. Suffice to say, Paris will not benefit from any respite.
In this heated environment, one question is on everyone’s lips: does PSG have the offensive weapons to withstand this storm? The good news could come from Désiré Doué. Injured during the international break, the young French prodigy ultimately seems destined for a reduced absence. According to Le Parisien , he would only miss one Champions League match before being able to rejoin his teammates. His potential return during the trip to the Camp Nou could breathe new life into the Parisian attack.
The news for Barça is no more reassuring. Diario AS journalist Javi Miguel revealed that Gavi, still struggling with his right knee, which he operated on two years ago, will miss the match against Valencia on September 14 and will likely be unavailable for the European opener against Newcastle. Catalan doctors are now aiming for a return to action on October 1, the date of the highly anticipated clash against PSG. In other words, Xavi could get his star back just as Paris arrives in Catalonia.
For former Barça coach Luis Enrique, the pressure is immense. He knows that this group stage can define the entire season. One misstep and Paris could find itself in trouble, with the threat of early elimination a blot on a club obsessed with conquering Europe. Conversely, a successful qualification from this group of death would reinforce the legitimacy of the project and galvanize the fans.
Parisian fans are torn between excitement and anxiety. On social media, many are already talking about an “obstacle course” and fear a repeat of past disappointments. But others see it as an opportunity: facing the best is also the best way to prove that PSG finally has what it takes to be a European champion.
One thing is certain: every night of this group stage will be a final before its time. Between the Bavarian might, the Catalan magic, the English fire, and the intensity of the outsiders, PSG will have to put on an impeccable face. Paris has no room for error. The road is strewn with pitfalls, but it is perhaps in this extreme adversity that the long-awaited European legend will finally be born.
