Argentinian superstar Lionel Messi could be handed his Paris Saint-Germain debut in Sunday’s Ligue 1 clash at Reims, while there are a host of other top-flight games taking place across France this weekend.
Cristiano Ronaldo may be on the verge of making a sensational return to Manchester United, but Messi’s switch from Barcelona to PSG this summer is still the most surprising transfer and French fans are eagerly awaiting their first look at the South American ace in competitive action.
That could come on Sunday when Les Parisiens, who top the table heading into the weekend’s action with a perfect three wins from three, make the trip to the Stade Auguste Delaune to take on 13th-place Reims.
PSG Brittle at the Back
PSG have scored a league-high 10 goals this season, and that’s without Messi playing, but they have looked a little susceptible at the back and have shipped five goals to date.
Reims are actually unbeaten from their three matches, recording 0-0, 3-3 and 1-1 draws, and they have only failed to score in two of their previous seven home league matches.
Taking anything from the contest looks a tall order, but there is a chance the hosts could get on the scoresheet and backing a PSG win with both teams to score at 17/10 looks tempting.
Defending Champions Set for More Misery
Lille enjoyed a fantastic 2020/21 campaign as they lifted the title for the first time since 2010/11, but they have endured a difficult start to their defence and are languishing down in 17th position.
Jocelyn Gourvennec’s men have drawn two and lost one of their opening three games and they face a tricky clash at home to Montpellier on Sunday, the game set for a 16:00 start.
The visitors occupy eighth place in the table, having amassed four points, while they have lost just one of their last 10 away league games.
With Lille struggling to fire right now, this looks like the perfect time for Montpellier to strike at odds of 19/5.
Clermont the Surprise Package
It can often prove difficult for promoted teams when making the step up to the top level, but Clermont have bucked that trend this term and they sit third in the table heading into this weekend’s fixtures.
Back-to-back 2-0 victories over Bordeaux and Troyes were followed by a 3-3 draw at Lyon last time out and the Lancers will be looking to extend their unbeaten run at home to Metz, who are down in 14th.
The visitors have taken just two points from their first three games and it looks a tall order for them to pick up the win on Sunday, given the fact they have lost their last two away games in Ligue 1.
Clermont also suffered just one home defeat in Ligue 2 last season, showcasing how strong they are in their own backyard, and they get backing at 20/27 to chalk up another victory and continue what has been a terrific start to the campaign.
*All odds correct at time of writing