Paris Saint-Germain manager Unai Emery has publicly revealed that Ángel di Maria’s first-half substitution during their 2-0 win over Nantes on Saturday was a precaution, ahead of their trip to north London in midweek.
The talented Argentine, 28, netted his first Ligue 1 goal of the campaign after just 13 minutes on the clock at the Parc des Princes. However, he was seen clutching his thigh in some discomfort and limped off the pitch before the half-time interval, raising the hosts’ fears that he will not be available to feature against Arsenal on Wednesday.
The significance of this upcoming group game cannot be understated, as it could be influential in deciding who tops Group A and potentially avoids one of the bigger sides in the knockout rounds after Christmas.
After the full-time whistle, Emery remained confident that he will be able to call upon di María’s services. As quoted by ESPNFC, he said: “There is a rest day tomorrow, he will be given time to recover but I think he will be in London for the match on Wednesday.”
Javier Pastore (knee) remains a doubt, and Emery admitted di María’s compatriot is unlikely to feature at the Emirates – unless he hears otherwise once the doctor’s exam results come back.
It’ll be interesting to see who PSG field in midweek, but any positive news regarding di María’s fitness will obviously be a boost for Les Parisiens. He has created six assists in all competitions, as well as netting a goal during their 3-0 Champions League home win at the hands of Basel last month.
Di María has shown his ability on numerous occasions this term, and is one of PSG’s key players – having played every match this season bar one, where he had been selected for international duty with his native Argentina.