The stakes could not be higher for PSG when they face Bayern Munich in the quarterfinals of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup on Saturday (July 5) at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta.
The German team is a familiar and unforgiving opponent for the French Champions having dominated their recent meetings, winning the last four matches without conceding a goal.
Despite this, Luis Enrique’s squad arrives in Atlanta with quiet but growing confidence after a convincing 4-0 victory over Inter Miami in the Round of 16, where Joao Neves scored a brace, and Achraf Hakimi delivered an outstanding performance from the right flank.
Enrique is aware that Bayern presents a different challenge with German side already scoring 16 goals in the tournament and displaying high pressing and effective line-breaking abilities.
Their 4-0 win over Flamengo in the last 16 was another reminder of their firepower but the French side, though, are preparing for a different outcome this time.
PSG receive good news before Bayern Munich clash
Just when it seemed like Enrique might be heading into the biggest match of the tournament with a midfield dilemma, they received good news.
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Spanish midfielder Fabian Ruiz returned to the squad and was seen training normally ahead of Saturday’s clash.
The 29-year-old missed only one session on Thursday due to a mild viral illness and now looks likely to be in the matchday squad for the quarter-final and his return could not have come at a more critical moment for PSG.
🇺🇸⚽️ Live training in Atlanta ahead of Bayern Munich 🔴🔵https://t.co/isfbag3fmC
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) July 4, 2025
Ruiz adds calm and precision in tight spaces, and his ability to dictate tempo, carry the ball forward and withstand pressure makes him an important asset against Bayern’s intense pressing style.
While it remains unclear whether he will start or be used as an option off the bench but Luis Enrique will certainly value the depth and control Ruiz brings to the midfield.
The only confirmed absentee is defender Presnel Kimpembe who continues to recover from injury.