Fati and Balogun out for Monaco's Paris Saint-Germain clash

AS Monaco will face Paris Saint-Germain this Friday with a squad weakened by several significant absences. The Ligue 1 match at the Parc des Princes, scheduled for September 4, 2025 at 9:05 PM, will see Monaco without Ansu Fati and Folarin Balogun, while Edan Diop remains a doubt.

Portuguese manager Filipe Luis must cope without two of his international forwards. Spanish international Ansu Fati is sidelined with a right calf issue and will miss the game, despite taking part in training on Wednesday morning at La Turbie. American striker Folarin Balogun is also unavailable, a situation linked to a persistent knee problem since returning from the World Cup and a failed transfer to Everton this summer.

Midfielder Edan Diop represents the only potential returnee for Filipe Luis. The player resumed team training on Tuesday following a thigh injury, but his manager remains cautious about a possible involvement. "I will make a decision tomorrow," said Filipe Luis. "The good news is that he has rejoined the group but I think he needs more time to come back." This uncertainty complicates Monaco's preparation for a always difficult trip to the Parc des Princes.

On their side, Paris Saint-Germain approach this clash as league leaders, with a nearly full squad. The Parisians are relying on their prolific attack, which has scored fourteen goals in four matchdays, to make the difference. The Parc crowd expects a solid performance from their team, which could extend their lead at the top with a victory.

This match holds particular importance in the title race. Monaco, currently in the top five, cannot afford to lose ground to the leader. The offensive absences weigh heavily in Filipe Luis's tactical equation, forcing him to find creative solutions. A defeat at the Parc des Princes could complicate Monaco's ambition to fight for European places, as shown by the current standings.

The pressure is therefore at its peak for both sides. After this match, Paris Saint-Germain will follow up with a trip to Lens next week, another important test in a busy schedule.