PARIS — Coach Luis Enrique expresses strong confidence that Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is heading in the right direction despite the team’s current standings in the Champions League indicating a downward trend.
After reaching the semifinals last season, PSG finds itself in a troubling 25th position out of 36 teams. Their recent 1-0 loss to Bayern Munich on Tuesday marks their third defeat in five matches. With issues in goalkeeping and a lack of scoring ability up front, the squad has only managed to net three goals, all while Enrique continues to operate without a traditional center forward.
“I am optimistic. The current standing in the Champions League does not reflect our true potential; we ought to have nine points instead,” Enrique stated during a press conference leading up to Saturday’s Ligue 1 clash with Nantes. He emphasized that there is room for growth across multiple facets, but he remains hopeful about the team’s future.
Yet, the former coach of Spain and Barcelona hinted at potential adjustments in the lineup.
“Every loss and every match provides critical insights for a coach. I plan to consider all of this as I make my forthcoming decisions,” Enrique remarked, stopping short of detailing what specific changes might be necessary.
“I could elaborate, but that would compromise the trust with my players. Issues should be addressed privately,” he added.
In a rare moment of self-reflection, Enrique acknowledged that he may have made some incorrect choices during match preparations.
“However, I must take decisive actions before the games start. It would be too simple to wait until issues are evident to acknowledge them,” he articulated.
As he contemplates his next moves, Enrique faces crucial questions, including whether to continue with error-prone goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma and how to rejuvenate forward Randal Kolo Muani, who has struggled to find the back of the net.
Kolo Muani, underwhelming since his transfer from Eintracht Frankfurt for a hefty 95 million euros (approximately $100 million) last season, has only scored 11 goals in 53 appearances and has recently lost his place in the starting lineup.
Nevertheless, Portugal’s Gonçalo Ramos may return to the center forward position against Nantes, having fully recovered from left ankle surgery performed in late August.