Here’s what you’ll discover:
- How Luis Enrique turned a team of individuals into a unified force.
- The key players who stepped up after Kylian Mbappe’s departure.
- PSG’s impressive stats and winning streak under Enrique.
- The tactical changes that led to PSG’s dominance.
From Superstars to Super Team: The Luis Enrique Effect
For years, PSG was synonymous with big names like Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappe. However, assembling superstars doesn’t always guarantee success. Luis Enrique recognized this and focused on building a team with a clear system and a collective mindset.
Mbappe’s Exit: A Blessing in Disguise?
When Kylian Mbappe announced his departure, many questioned PSG’s future. After all, he was the team’s talisman and top scorer. However, Enrique saw this as an opportunity to create a more balanced and dynamic attack. He famously stated that the team would be much better in every aspect in the coming season. The team was still able to clinch the Ligue 1 title with a 1-0 win against Angers, preparing them for the Champion’s League quarter-final against Aston Villa.
New Stars Emerge: Dembele, Barcola, and More!
With Mbappe gone, other players seized the opportunity to shine. Ousmane Dembele has become a prolific goalscorer, while young talents like Bradley Barcola, Goncalo Ramos and Desire Doue have made significant contributions. These players are some of the reasons that PSG is close to matching their total league tally from last season, despite Mbappe’s absence.
A Young and Energetic Squad
Enrique has built a team around young and hungry players. Vitinha and Joao Neves bring dynamism to the midfield, while Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes provide pace and quality at full-back. This injection of youth has transformed PSG’s playing style, making them more energetic and aggressive.
Tactical Masterclass: High Press and Suffocating Defense
One of the key changes under Enrique is the implementation of a high-pressing system. PSG now aggressively wins the ball back in the opponent’s half, suffocating their attacks and creating scoring opportunities. With six games remaining, PSG are one goal away from matching their total league tally from last season.
Champions League Dreams: Can PSG Conquer Europe?
After winning the Ligue 1 title, PSG’s focus now shifts to the Champions League. With their newfound team spirit and tactical prowess, they are a force to be reckoned with. They are set to face Aston Villa in the quarter-finals, in what will be a battle of wits between Enrique and Villa’s coach, Unai Emery.
The Boss’s Vision: A Long-Term Project
Luis Enrique’s impact extends beyond just tactics and formations. He has instilled a sense of belief and unity within the team. His contract extension to 2027 shows that PSG is committed to his long-term vision. He prioritizes players’ dedication over trophies. Players have clearly bought into Luis Enrique’s ideas, creating an enviornment where the team can grow into its full potential.
As defender Lucas Hernandez said: “He is the boss, we follow his ideas and we try to apply them as well as possible. It already worked last season. We are still following his philosophy this season. Let’s hope it continues.”
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