Tom Williams, an author focused on French football history, and Pierre-Etienne Minonzio, a contributor from L'Equipe, dive into PSG's struggles following Kylian Mbappe's departure. They discuss the team's vulnerabilities displayed in their recent loss to Arsenal and the challenges of managing a less experienced squad. The conversation shifts to manager Luis Enrique's strategies, highlighting the importance of younger players stepping up and building a team-first mentality amidst fan expectations and concerns about the club's future.
PSG's transition to relying on young talent after star departures like Mbappe has revealed both potential and vulnerabilities in high-stakes matches.
Under Luis Enrique, PSG's new tactical approach emphasizes teamwork and adapting to unconventional roles, shifting focus from individual superstars to collective effort.
Deep dives
PSG’s Transition Post-Mbappe
Following Kylian Mbappe's departure to Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) revealed a new approach, relying on a younger and less star-centric team composition. This shift was evident in their recent match against Arsenal, where they fielded an inexperienced lineup that struggled against more seasoned opponents. Despite a strong performance in Ligue 1, where PSG has thrived with attractive football, the squad's lack of Champions League experience became apparent, highlighting their limitations on the European stage. This transformation raises questions about PSG's ability to compete with top-tier clubs, especially in high-stakes matches.
Luis Enrique's Tactical Shift
Under manager Luis Enrique, PSG has adopted a tactical approach that emphasizes playing with a false nine instead of a traditional striker, reflecting a broader strategic evolution. This shift has put pressure on players like Marco Asensio and Gonzalo Ramos, who have been utilized in unconventional attacking roles. While the change has yielded some attractive play, it also exposed vulnerabilities, particularly in matches against top teams like Arsenal, where the lack of a focal point in attack was evident. As PSG forges this identity, it will be crucial for the players to adapt and learn how to effectively contribute in this setup.
The Impact of Youth on PSG’s Performance
PSG's recent fixture highlighted a young and promising roster, as they showcased the second youngest starting eleven in the Champions League this season. The influx of young talent comes with both elation and challenges, as they encounter the pressures of high-stakes matches without the experience required to excel consistently. Players like Lee Kang-in and Desiré Douay displayed their potential, yet the team's inexperience contributed to their inability to handle Arsenal's tactical maturity during the match. Fans and analysts express mixed feelings, hopeful for development but aware that patience is necessary as this team grows together.
Fan Sentiment Towards Team Evolution
PSG fans have generally embraced the team's evolution from a collection of superstars to a squad focused on teamwork and collective effort. The departure of star players like Mbappe may have created uncertainty initially, but many supporters now appreciate the effort and camaraderie displayed by the current squad. The team’s recent strategy of emphasizing hard work and local talent has cultivated a stronger connection with fans who long for dedication on the pitch. Overall, there is a sense of cautious optimism among the fanbase as they look forward to seeing their team succeed without the shadow of past stars.
On Tuesday night PSG lost for first time since Kylian Mbappe left for Real Madrid having started the season seven games unbeaten prior to their visit to London.
They were also without Ousmane Dembele against Arsenal, the player was dropped for disciplinary reasons.
So can PSG succeed without superstars?
Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Tom Williams, author of Va Va Voom, the modern history of French Football and Pierre-Etienne Minonzio from L'Equipe to discuss PSG's start to the new season, the role of Luis Enrique in their re-styling as well as which young players amongst their ranks could blossom into being their next talisman.
The Athletic's Peter Rutzler also drops in with his view having been at the Emirates while Mike Stavrou also catches up with the travelling PSG supporters.