Bayern Munich vs. PSG: Four key battles to watch at the Parc des Princes

2.  Thiago vs. Marco Verratti

Wednesday’s match will be full of high-profile attackers and defenders. But make no mistake, this match will largely be won and lost in the midfield. Just as both teams boast an impressive corps of attacking and defensive talent, they also possess some of the world’s best midfield talent.

Bayern Munich have several amazing midfielders, but there’s no doubt that Thiago Alcantara is the supreme talent in the Bavarian midfield. The Spaniard had a phenomenal ’16-17 season, firmly establishing himself as one of the best in the business.

Thiago is not only key for die Roten going forward, but is equally as important in providing defensive help to the Bayern back-line. The same could be said of Paris Saint-Germain’s Marco Verratti.

Despite his diminutive stature, the Italian midfielder is a true midfield maestro. He provides a creative spark in midfield, but also puts in his fair share of defensive work. PSG’s little magician was Ligue 1’s second-highest rated player per WhoScored’s statistical ratings.

That pales in comparison, though, to how Thiago fared. The Spanish international finished as the Bundesliga’s highest rated player by a long shot, and only finished behind Lionel Messi and Neymar in Europe’s top five leagues.

Whether it’s a high-scoring game or a goalless draw, Wednesday’s match should be a great tactical battle, and these two stars will be right at the heart of it.