The French league has postponed the clash between Paris Saint-Germain and Marseille to Monday evening because of expected storms.
The game falls on the same night as the Ballon d’Or ceremony at the Châtelet Theatre in Paris on September 22. The change means PSG players cannot attend the awards. Ten players from the club are among the nominees.
Ousmane Dembélé is one of the favourites for the main men’s prize. He will not play against Marseille as he is out injured. Young teammate Désiré Doué is also unavailable. Their absence increases the chance that the potential winner will be at the ceremony.
Many expect Dembélé to lift the trophy, though some believe Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal or Raphinha could upset the odds. Both are praised for their individual brilliance, but their lack of major international titles could hurt their chances.
Barcelona enjoyed domestic success last season, winning the league, Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup. But they fell short in Europe, losing to Inter Milan in the Champions League semifinals.
This year’s Ballon d’Or gala will be hosted by Ruud Gullit and Kate Scott. The main award will be presented by Ronaldinho.
Last year’s event drew controversy when Real Madrid boycotted the ceremony. The club protested after Manchester City’s Rodri won ahead of Vinicius Junior.
This year’s intrigue lies in how PSG, winners of both the Champions League and European Super Cup, manage the clash of Le Classique and the Paris ceremony on the same night.
