Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) finds itself in a challenging period, even as the team retains a core of talent that made history by winning the treble last season. Despite their past successes, the reigning European champions are facing mounting pressure to improve performances as they enter the crucial stages of the UEFA Champions League.
Currently, PSG has only managed four victories in their last eight matches, a troubling pattern that began with a surprising 1-0 loss to Paris FC in the Coupe de France. This defeat contributed to their inability to secure a spot in the Champions League’s top eight by the end of the league phase, resulting in a slip to second place in Ligue 1 following a loss to Rennes. Such obstacles are unusual for PSG, typically dominant in domestic competitions, leaving fans and analysts pondering the underlying issues.
Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele pointed to a lack of unity as a significant problem, emphasizing that the team must prioritize collective success over individual achievements, especially in the wake of Kylian Mbappe’s departure to Real Madrid. “I think we need to show more desire,” Dembele said, advocating for a shift back to the teamwork that characterized their successful previous season.
In response, coach Luis Enrique dismissed concerns about morale and player dissent, stating that the players’ comments were born from post-match frustration and ultimately irrelevant. “I am the person responsible for the team,” he asserted, reinforcing his authority and commitment to team-first principles.
Statistically, PSG’s performance has not significantly declined. They maintain a solid defensive record, with an average of one goal conceded per game across competitions. However, the team’s attacking prowess seems to have dimmed. Despite generating an average of 2.4 expected goals per match, they have only been converting at a rate of 1.8 goals per game. This was starkly illustrated against Rennes, where PSG outshot their opponents 22 to 13 and produced 3.58 expected goals but still suffered a 3-1 defeat.
This season’s high-intensity style that propelled PSG to success last year has waned, with the demands of an unforgiving schedule potentially taking their toll. After a grueling summer that included participation in the Club World Cup and the UEFA Super Cup, fatigue may be setting in.
As the squad grapples with individual performances — Dembele has scored 13 goals and provided eight assists but trails behind last season’s pace due to injuries — the upcoming match against a struggling Monaco team presents a critical chance for PSG to regain their footing. With their rich history and considerable talent, fans remain hopeful that the champions can turn the tide and get back to winning ways.