Paris Saint-Germain: A Revival in the Making
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has been on an extraordinary run of form leading up to their Champions League clash against Liverpool this Wednesday. The French giants, who have been navigating the post-Kylian Mbappe era, have demonstrated resilience and adaptability. Coach Luis Enrique, who presided over a successful first season that included a French league and cup double and a Champions League semi-final appearance, was tasked with rebuilding the team after Mbappe’s departure to Real Madrid. The challenge was immense, but PSG’s recent performances have silenced the skeptics and set the stage for a thrilling encounter.
Embracing Change with New Talent
When Mbappe left, Enrique emphasized the importance of collective effort and strategic signings. The club invested heavily in the summer, bringing in Joao Neves, Desire Doue, Willian Pacho, and Matvey Safonov. Despite the absence of a proven goal-scorer, these new additions were expected to fill the void. However, the initial results were disappointing, with PSG struggling in Europe and managing only three goals in their first five Champions League games. Defeats against Arsenal, Atletico Madrid, and Bayern Munich left the team at risk of an early exit. Yet, the tide has turned dramatically since then.
A Resurgence in Form
PSG’s resurgence over the past three months has been nothing short of spectacular. Since the 1-0 loss to Bayern on November 26, PSG has remained undefeated in 22 games across all competitions. They have won their last five Champions League matches, scoring an impressive 21 goals, including a remarkable 10 against Brest in the play-off round. The 4-1 victory over Lille on Saturday was their 10th consecutive win in all competitions and maintained their unbeaten domestic record. The sports daily L’Equipe hailed this performance as "absolutely ruthless, at times magnificent."
Collective Effort and Individual Brilliance
The current PSG team is characterized by a blend of collective strength and individual brilliance. Captain Marquinhos, who has been with the club since 2013, highlighted the team’s reliance on a collective effort. "We are in great form, it’s all systems go. We really rely on the collective. It has taken a long time. We have progressed step by step. But there are still things we need to improve," he said. Ousmane Dembele has been a standout performer, transforming from a thrilling winger with wayward finishing to one of the most clinical forwards. He has scored 26 goals this season, including 21 in 16 appearances since mid-December. Bradley Barcola has also stepped up, increasing his goal tally from five last season to 17 so far this year.
Key Decisions and Tactical Flexibility
With a settled side and a fully-fit squad, the only real dilemma for Enrique is who will complete the front three for Wednesday’s first leg against Liverpool. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who joined in January from Napoli, is still finding his feet, so Desire Doue may get the nod. The 19-year-old winger, with a touch of Neymar in his play, has contributed 16 goals or assists since mid-December. Luis Enrique, while acknowledging the team’s good form, remains cautious. "We are going to be playing against the best team in Europe, who qualified brilliantly, but it is not in our mentality to speculate, to try to protect ourselves, to be defensive. We will attack and try to turn the game our way," he said.
A New Era of Confidence
PSG’s recent success has not only bolstered their confidence but also raised questions about whether this team could be the best they have ever assembled since the Qatari takeover in 2011. This would be a significant claim, given the caliber of players who have donned the PSG jersey, from Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Mbappe to Lionel Messi and Neymar. The team’s performance against Liverpool will be a true test of their mettle. If they can overcome a formidable opponent like Liverpool, it may finally dispel the label of "chokers" that has haunted them in big Champions League matches over the past decade. The stage is set for a thrilling and historic encounter at the Parc des Princes.
