Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly expressing significant discontent with midfielder Fabian Ruiz, following claims that the Spanish international has refused to play through pain associated with a knee injury. The Champions League holders officially confirmed on Tuesday that Ruiz will be unavailable for their crucial quarter-final first leg clash against Liverpool, as he continues with an individual training programme aimed at restoring his full fitness.
Injury Frustration Mounts at PSG
Fabian Ruiz has been sidelined since January, despite initial assessments suggesting the injury was merely a minor bruise on his left knee. According to a report from L'Equipe journalist Loic Tanzi, Ruiz's prolonged absence has begun to generate frustration within the club's hierarchy. PSG officials are reportedly convinced that his knee is now completely fine and believe he could have featured in their recent Ligue 1 match against Toulouse over the weekend.
Ruiz's Stance on Pain and Training
However, Ruiz has been insistent that he will not train or play if he experiences any knee pain. Tanzi emphasised this point, stating, 'There is one certainty, it’s what he says and that he repeats that as long as he is in pain and suffering, he doesn’t want to play. So much that he is in pain and suffering, he doesn’t want to play. At the slightest pain, he doesn’t want to train.' This cautious approach has reportedly left PSG unhappy, as they view the midfielder as a crucial component of their squad.
Managerial Support and Club Expectations
PSG boss Luis Enrique has publicly defended the star player, attempting to dispel suggestions of internal unhappiness. He stressed the need to provide the 30-year-old with confidence during his recovery, saying, 'We have to wait for the player, there’s no problem. We’re trying to get the players back as soon as possible. We’re still focused on giving the player confidence. Fabian hasn’t trained with the group yet. He’s made a lot of progress, and we’re happy because he seems to be on the right track, but he still needs to do a little more.'
Ruiz has been a vital figure for PSG, making 61 appearances during their Treble-winning campaign last season. This term, he has featured 24 times but has been absent for both club and country since January, highlighting his importance to the team's dynamics.
Champions League Quarter-Final Context
PSG will also be without Bradley Barcola due to injury as they prepare to face Liverpool in the Champions League quarter-finals. The French giants are considered favourites for the tie, having previously overcome Liverpool on penalties in the last-16 en route to winning the competition last season. PSG will aim to exploit Liverpool's fragile confidence, especially after Arne Slot's side suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup on Saturday.
For Liverpool, the Champions League represents their only remaining opportunity to secure silverware this season, while they continue to battle for qualification for next season's competition through their Premier League performance. Under-pressure boss Arne Slot leads his team into this high-stakes encounter, with both clubs eager to advance in Europe's premier club competition.
