Luis Enrique confirms Hernandez and Kimpembe back in PSG fold

Luis Enrique confirmed that defenders Lucas Hernandez and Presnel Kimpembe have rejoined Paris Saint-Germain following their respective long-term injuries.

Kimpembe has missed almost two years of action and last played in a 3-0 win over Marseille in February 2023 after rupturing his Achilles tendon.

Hernandez, meanwhile, underwent surgery in May after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the Champions League semi-final against Borussia Dortmund.

Luis Enrique said both players were closing in on a return to the first team, but said the pair must be given time before they are regularly seen on the pitch again.

“These are players who are returning. Lucas Hernandez and Presnel Kimpembe have adapted back to the team,” Enrique told reporters on Thursday.

“They need rhythm, they miss the process of taking the time to train and help the team.

“The injuries are a thing of the past and it is good news that they are back in the group.”

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Auxerre06/12 – 9pm#AJAPSG I @visitrwanda_now pic.twitter.com/cfG4jkgeux

— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) December 4, 2024

The Parisiens travel to the Stade de l'Abbe Deschamps this weekend to take on Auxerre, hoping to maintain their unbeaten start to the Ligue 1 season.

Luis Enrique's side have 33 points from 13 games so far and have scored 37 goals in the division, eight more than second-place Marseille.

After next Friday's match, PSG will take on Lyon, Monaco and Lens in December, with all three teams currently in the top seven of the standings.

However, Luis Enrique was keen to focus on one game at a time, hoping to maintain their impressive record on the road after going unbeaten in their last 30 away games in Ligue 1 (W23 D7).

The previous record in the history of the top class was held by Lyon (21 between 2005 and 2006).

“I think we have an intense schedule, but the idea is more or less to control the workload of the players and prepare well for the matches,” said Luis Enrique.

“It's a normal schedule. Auxerre is a team with very good results at home and difficult to play. They are well organized. We have to win.”

“They have won a lot of home games. They are in a good period, they have mastered side reversals well.

“They are doing well, it will be difficult, there is no doubt about that.”