PSG Denies Frustration with Fabian Ruiz Ahead of Liverpool Champions League Match

Paris Saint-Germain announced on Tuesday that midfielder Fabian Ruiz will be unavailable for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Liverpool due to a knee injury. The 30-year-old Spanish international has been out of action since January. He has made 24 appearances for the club this season but has not featured since the start of the year.

Reports from L'Equipe journalist Loic Tanzi indicate that Ruiz's ongoing absence has generated frustration among PSG officials. Tanzi reported that club officials believe Ruiz's knee is now fully recovered and that he could have played in the recent Ligue 1 match against Toulouse. However, Ruiz has stated that he will not play or train if he experiences any pain in his knee.

Ruiz is following an individual recovery program to regain match fitness. The injury was initially described as a bruise to his left knee. PSG, the reigning Champions League winners, also face the absence of forward Bradley Barcola due to injury for the match against Liverpool.

“We have to wait for the player, there's no problem. " — Luis Enrique (GB News) PSG manager Luis Enrique addressed the situation during a pre-match press conference. He noted that Ruiz has made progress and appears to be on the right track but requires additional work before rejoining group training.”

Enrique emphasized the club's focus on restoring the player's confidence. Ruiz played a key role in PSG's Treble-winning season last year, accumulating 61 appearances as the club secured domestic and European titles. The team defeated Liverpool on penalties in last season's Champions League last-16 round en route to their first title.

PSG enters the current tie as favorites despite the absences.