PSG's Offensive Struggles Post-Mbappé: A Closer Look
Following Kylian Mbappé's departure, Paris Saint-Germain faces challenges in maintaining offensive efficiency, particularly in the Champions League.
Since the transfer of Kylian Mbappé to Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has encountered notable difficulties in their offensive play, especially in the UEFA Champions League. Mbappé, who netted 44 goals across all competitions in the previous season, left a significant void in PSG's attacking lineup.
In the current Champions League campaign, PSG has managed to score only two goals in three matches, with one being an own goal that secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Girona. The team's lack of a clinical striker has been evident, as highlighted in a 1-1 draw against PSV Eindhoven, where fullback Achraf Hakimi emerged as the sole goal scorer. Captain Marquinhos acknowledged the team's inefficiency despite creating numerous opportunities, stating, "Efficiency was our main problem because we had a lot of chances."
In contrast, PSG's domestic performance in Ligue 1 has been more promising. Under the guidance of coach Luis Enrique, the team has showcased a balanced attack, with players like Bradley Barcola stepping up. Barcola notably scored twice in a commanding 6-0 victory over Montpellier, demonstrating PSG's potential to thrive without their former star.
However, the transition has not been seamless. Former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry observed that while PSG appears more stable without Mbappé, they have lost some of their "magic," as evidenced by their struggle to convert dominance into victories, such as in the draw against PSV Eindhoven.
Looking ahead, PSG faces formidable challenges in the Champions League, with upcoming matches against top-tier teams like Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City. The team's ability to adapt and find new avenues for goal-scoring will be crucial in determining their success on the European stage.