PSG: Presnel Kimpembe’s unexpected return to training

Three workouts and a surprise. Two days before the French Cup final, PSG held a third collective session at the PSG campus following the resumption of training on Tuesday afternoon. It was especially marked by the unexpected return of Presnel Kimpembe. Having undergone further surgery on his Achilles tendon in early December following a rupture in February 2023, the Parisian defender completed part of the day’s training and took part in several drills before leaving his teammates to pursue his career individually.

This return, somewhat early based on his recovery protocol, does not mean he will be in PSG’s group for the French Cup final against Lyon on Saturday in Lille. In addition to the absence of the Parisian Titi, Sergio Rico and Lucas Hernandez, Luis Enrique will be able to count on a full-fledged group. In fact, almost the entire group was present for classes this Thursday morning, and the teaching sessions have been of good quality since Tuesday evening.

The break was good

It appears that the breaks and rest days given to Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Vitinier, Fabian Ruiz or Donnarumma, as well as those given to Warren Zaire-Emery or Achraf Hakimi in the middle of last week, have done the greatest good. Noting the relaxation in the days following the Champions League semi-final exit against Dortmund (0-1 on May 7), the Spanish coach and his staff were able to appreciate the intensity shown by the players and the extra work they put in.

The Parisians will travel to Lille on Friday and hold a dress rehearsal at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy at 16:45, with Luis Enrique speaking to the media at 16:00. He will be accompanied by Marquinhos. The next day they will try to win a third title this season in front of 16,000 traveling Parisian fans.