Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) will resume training on July 27, according to reports from Le Parisien. Manager Luis Enrique faces a condensed preparation window of just 16 days before the club’s first major official fixture, the UEFA Super Cup against Aston Villa on August 12.
Squad Availability and World Cup Impact
Luis Enrique’s tactical preparations are hampered by a significantly depleted professional squad. The overlap with the FIFA World Cup has delayed the return of key international players, leaving the manager with a limited group for the initial phase of pre-season.
The 16-Day Countdown to the UEFA Super Cup
This condensed window is a direct result of the extended 2025-26 season, which pushed the traditional off-season break deeper into the summer.
Impact on Trophée des Champions and European Ambitions
The lack of a full squad during the early August window doesn’t just threaten the Super Cup; it also jeopardizes PSG’s readiness for the Trophée des champions. According to Le Parisien, the “shaved” preparation period could lead to suboptimal performances in these early-season trophies, as Enrique cannot implement his full tactical system without his core professional group present.
PSG Pre-Season Timeline
| Event | Date | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Training Resumes | July 27 | Initial return to camp |
| UEFA Super Cup | August 12 | First official match vs. Aston Villa |
| Preparation Window | 16 Days | Total time between return and first game |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is PSG starting training so late?
The late start is due to the extended 2025-26 season and the scheduling of the FIFA World Cup, which prevented players from returning to Paris earlier.
Who is PSG playing in the UEFA Super Cup?
PSG is scheduled to face Aston Villa on August 12.
How does this affect Luis Enrique’s strategy?
Enrique must manage a “very diminished” professional group, which limits his ability to conduct full-team tactical drills and increases the risk of player fatigue and injury.