Paris Saint Germain have been dealt a major blow as the club have confirmed that Kylian Mbappe will miss the Champions League Round of 16 first leg against Bayern Munich after being forced off with injury against Montpellier.
The French striker, who is the club’s top goalscorer in Ligue 1 this season, had a first half to forget on Wednesday evening, missing two penalties before picking up a hamstring injury and having to be substituted.
Though his side ultimately ran out comfortable 3-1 winners, courtesy of goals from Lionel Messi, Fabian Ruiz and Warren Zaire-Emery there was concern over their star man.
Incredible scenes in PSG’s game at Montpellier! 🤯
Kylian Mbappé’s first penalty attempt is saved, VAR rules he’s allowed a retake, his second attempt hits the post and then he blasts the rebound over the bar! 😳 pic.twitter.com/ERbEGzIUgn
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) February 1, 2023
And the club’s worst fears have been realised, with PSG announcing that the 23-year-old will be sidelined for three weeks with his latest issue.
“After undergoing tests, Kylian Mbappé suffered an injury to the left thigh at the level of the femoral biceps”, the club revealed.
“He is expected to be out of action for three weeks.”
Like Manchester City, PSG have prioritised winning the Champions League in recent seasons, and with Lionel Messi returning to form alongside both Mbappe and Neymar, they have their best chance to claim their first European trophy this season.
Fortunately, Mbappe will likely be back in time for the second leg of the tie at the Allianz Arena.