PSG predicted lineup vs Rennes - Ligue 1
By Max Parsons
Paris Saint-Germain host Rennes on Friday night, looking for a fourth successive Ligue 1 victory.
Mauricio Pochettino's men are enjoying a glorious run of form at the moment. Ignoring a disappointing Coupe de France exit to Nice, Les Parisiens have won three on the bounce in the league, comfortably seeing off Brest and Reims before thrashing champions Lille 5-1 last time out.
They face a tough test on Friday, however, aiming to overcome a Rennes side pushing for Champions League qualification.
This is how Pochettino could set his PSG team up.
1. Goalkeeper & Defenders
Gianluigi Donnarumma (GK) - Hasn't managed to hold down the number one spot with competition but, with three clean sheets in his previous four Ligue 1 outings, could be selected again here.
Achraf Hakimi (RB) - Was, of course, excellent on his return to PSG action against Lille following a brilliant individual Africa Cup of Nations campaign.
Marquinhos (CB) - Uncharacteristically shaky at times in that thrashing of Les Dogues, but he's absolutely central to this team.
Presnel Kimpembe (CB) - Sergio Ramos' absence should see Kimpembe pretty comfortably - and deservedly - keep his place.
Nuno Mendes (LB) - A left-back in the Alphonso Davies mould, this guy makes PSG worth watching on his own at times, honestly.
2. Midfielders
Danilo Pereira (CM) - With three goals in his last three, the Portuguese has certainly earned another start here.
Leandro Paredes (CM) - The hearty warrior is in good form at the moment and, following an assist last time out, should be in line for a third consecutive Ligue 1 start.
Marco Verratti (CM) - Talking of form, Verratti has three goal involvements in his previous two league appearances and will definitely start for the fifth Ligue 1 game on the trot.
3. Forwards
Xavi Simons (RW) - Angel Di Maria and Neymar are both absent and, although Mauro Icardi is an option, is this a chance to see the youngster given a chance instead?
Lionel Messi (CF) - Kylian Mbappe recently suggested Messi is best suited to a central role for PSG and, following his sublime showing in the 5-1 annihilation of Lille last time out, you can't really argue with that.
Kylian Mbappe (LW) - Has been simply delightful to watch all season, and we'll undoubtedly get to admire him once more on Friday night.