Why NO Lucas Hernandez in PSG vs Athletic Club UCL Tonight? Luis Enrique Confirms

Paris Saint-Germain defender Lucas Hernandez will be a notable absentee from the squad facing Athletic Club in tonight's decisive UEFA Champions League match. The reason for the French international's exclusion has been officially confirmed as a multi-match suspension handed down by UEFA.

The former Bayern Munich man received a straight red card during the previous Champions League fixture against Tottenham Hotspur for an act of foul play, elbowing an opponent. The subsequent disciplinary hearing has resulted in a significant Lucas Hernandez ban, keeping him out of action for the remainder of the league phase.

Lucas Hernandez Ban: The Reason

According to French media outlet Le Parisien, the defender was sanctioned with a three-match ban for his straight red card. This suspension means that the critical Group Stage match against Athletic Club in Bilbao will be the first of his enforced absences. He will also miss the upcoming ties against Sporting CP and Newcastle United, ensuring he will not feature for PSG in the Champions League again until the knockout rounds, should the Parisian side qualify.

Hernandez elbowed Tottenham Hotspur's attacking midfielder Xavi Simons in the face. After a quick VAR review, the referee gave the substitute his marching orders.

Luis Enrique's Response

While PSG manager Luis Enrique has not issued a specific, detailed public statement directly addressing the severity of the Lucas Hernandez ban, his pre-match preparations and general commentary have focused on the team's ability to adapt to adversity and depth in the squad.

The suspension, coupled with other defensive uncertainties, including the injury to Achraf Hakimi and fitness concerns over Nuno Mendes, presents a significant challenge for Luis Enrique. He said, “Every time a player is injured and can't play, we look for a solution within the team. There's Warren Zaïre-Emery, Joao Neves, Willian Pacho…There are a lot of players who can play left-back.”

Speaking about the atmosphere of San Mames, Enrique added, “We know there will be a red-hot atmosphere. I spoke about it with my players. It's marvellous to be able to play this kind of game. It's a very important match, for them and for us."

He also confirmed the return of winger Desire Doue from injury, stating, “Doue is back; it’s important for us to know how to manage his minutes. I saw him this week; I hope he can play tomorrow [tonight].”