Luis Enrique uncertain over Vitinha return for Bayern semi-final clash

Paris Saint-Germain head coach Luis Enrique has cast doubt over the availability of Vitinha for the club’s crucial UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg against Bayern Munich, Sport360NG reports. 

The Portuguese midfielder is set to miss Wednesday’s Ligue 1 encounter with FC Nantes due to a heel inflammation, raising concerns over his readiness for next week’s European showdown at the Parc des Princes.

Speaking on Tuesday, Enrique stressed that the club would adopt a cautious approach regarding the 26-year-old’s recovery, admitting uncertainty over whether he will be fit in time.

“We will take a calm and measured approach with the injured players, but I cannot say if he will be ready,” Enrique said, noting that fatigue and minor injuries are affecting several members of his squad.

Should Vitinha fail to recover, Fabián Ruiz is expected to step into the midfield role. The Spaniard recently returned from a knee injury, featuring briefly in PSG’s 2-1 Ligue 1 defeat to Olympique Lyonnais last weekend.

Ruiz had previously formed a key midfield trio alongside Vitinha and João Neves during PSG’s historic campaign last season, when the Paris side secured both the Ligue 1 title and their first Champions League crown.

However, Enrique urged patience with the 30-year-old, insisting he requires more time to regain full match fitness after a three-month layoff.

“Fabián needs minutes and matches to recover his rhythm, but I’m pleased with his return,” the Spaniard added.

Despite PSG’s strong position in the title race, Enrique maintained that higher standards are still expected from his squad. He also addressed the absence of teenage prospect Ibrahim Mbaye from the Lyon matchday squad, emphasising the need for consistent readiness.

“Every minute at PSG must be earned. I have no regrets, but I expect more from all the players,” he said.

PSG will look to respond immediately when they host Nantes, with victory set to move them three points clear of title rivals RC Lens with five games remaining in the Ligue 1 season.