UEFA Super Cup Preview: PSG vs. Tottenham Hotspur
A grand exhibition is set to take place before the European club season officially kicks off—the UEFA Super Cup, featuring Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday. I’m Pardeep Cattry, providing insights as these two recent trophy winners gear up for their clash in Udine, Italy.
Match Details
Wednesday, August 13th
🏆 UEFA Super Cup: Paris Saint-Germain vs. Tottenham Hotspur, 3 PM, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+
EFL Cup: Birmingham City vs. Sheffield United, 3 PM ➡ Paramount+, CBS Sports Golazo Network
US Open Cup: Philadelphia Union vs. New York Red Bulls, 7 PM
PSG’s Pre-Match Focus: Donnarumma’s Departure
As PSG prepares for their first game since their defeat to Chelsea in the Club World Cup final last month, the summer transfer saga surrounding Gianluigi Donnarumma has captured attention. The goalkeeper, instrumental in PSG’s recent UEFA Champions League triumph, seems set to leave under coach Luis Enrique’s newfound approach. While the squad announcement hinted at his exit, the speculation intensified when PSG praised new signing Chevalier’s skills.
Enrique acknowledged the difficulty in the decision, highlighting Donnarumma’s talent but indicating a need for a different type of goalkeeper. Donnarumma claimed his departure wasn’t his choice; his agent, Enzo Raiola, suggests he was even willing to reduce his salary to remain in Paris, with Premier League rumors swirling around him.
Though a deal is not finalized, reports indicate Donnarumma is leaning toward a move to Manchester City, who have already acquired James Trafford, leaving City with pressing decisions as his contract dwindles down.
Spurs Set for Their Super Cup Debut
Tottenham Hotspur is set to make their first appearance in the UEFA Super Cup on Wednesday. However, their relative inexperience is overshadowed by a roster reshaped through significant summer transfers.
This Super Cup serves as a crucial opportunity for new manager Thomas Frank to demonstrate his capabilities. Key signings like winger Mohammed Kudus and defensive midfielder Joa Palhinya mark a refreshed squad, but questions remain about integrating them effectively alongside established players.
With the UEFA Europa League victory from last spring not fully erasing challenges from the last league season, pressure mounts on Frank to show that he can lead Spurs to success, particularly given the club’s unpredictable transition period.
Betting Insights
UEFA Super Cup: Paris Saint-Germain vs. Tottenham Hotspur, Wednesday, 3 PM
💰 Pick: Both teams to not score (+128) – Both teams are in transition phases, making it likely that they won’t showcase their best performances just yet. PSG, having recently lost, and Tottenham, under a new manager, might struggle to find their rhythm early in the season.
For further picks and updates, check cbssports.com for all your betting insights.
Fan Take
This matchup is significant for soccer fans as it highlights the evolving landscape of European football, particularly with PSG’s potential tactical shifts post-Donnarumma and Spurs’ new direction under Frank. The outcomes of these games could set important precedents for both clubs as they navigate the upcoming season.
