Five reasons why Barcelona v PSG is a huge match

Istanbul Basaksehir v Paris Saint-Germain: Group H - UEFA Champions League

Kylian Mbappe and PSG’s project

Each time PSG take to the field in Europe, their very credibility appears on the line and it will be no different against Barcelona. Having spent so lavishly on Neymar and Mbappe, each elimination feels like a crossroads at which they could either begin a decline or come back with a renewed assault a year later.

With Neymar all but committing his future to PSG over a return to Barcelona or moving elsewhere by indicating his willingness to sign a new contract with the French club, there is perhaps not quite the urgency to open contract talks with Mbappe.

But with his contract expiring in 2022, the race is on for PSG to tie down the former Monaco attacker. Should they fail to do so before the summer, it likely means they will be forced to sell elsewhere, facing the prospect of losing one of the world’s greatest talents on a free transfer.

Real Madrid are waiting patiently in the wings with regards to the young World Cup winner, ready to pounce on any sign of weakness from the Parisians. Like Messi, Mbappe wants his club to show that they are still of a status at which they can hope to challenge for Champions League glory.

An elimination to the weakest Barcelona in well over a decade would be a sign that they are not at the standard he wishes. For that reason, PSG will feel they must win this tie against Barcelona.