PSG Struggles in Champions League Without Mbappe as Pressure Mounts Ahead of Atletico Clash

Posted : 05 November 2024

Kylian Mbappe's departure from Paris Saint-Germain has left a significant gap, and the team is currently struggling in this season's Champions League without his prolific goal-scoring ability. Having transferred to Real Madrid after a record-setting 256 goals in seven seasons at PSG, Mbappe’s absence is being felt as the French side prepares to face Atletico Madrid in a crucial European match.

Currently, PSG finds themselves with just four points from three group stage matches, despite favorable home fixtures against Girona and PSV Eindhoven, as well as a challenging away game at Arsenal.

Luis Enrique’s side managed a narrow 1-0 victory against Girona, aided only by a late own goal despite firing off 26 attempts on goal. The performance was followed by a disappointing 2-0 loss at Arsenal, which revealed that PSG is still a considerable distance from being serious contenders for Europe’s top honours.

A 1-1 draw against PSV further highlighted their struggles in front of goal, where they again registered 26 attempts but failed to convert enough chances. To advance to the next stage, PSG needs to secure a top 24 finish in the new 36-team format, meaning they may only require two wins from their remaining fixtures, but a loss to Atletico could complicate matters with Bayern Munich looming next.

After the match against PSV, Enrique expressed concern about the group's difficulty, which includes tough opponents like Red Bull Salzburg and Manchester City. While PSG is performing well domestically, sitting six points clear at the top of Ligue 1 and scoring 29 goals in ten matches, their Champions League woes can be traced back to last season’s semifinals when they struggled to find the net against Borussia Dortmund despite being favourites.

This season, they have only managed two goals from 62 attempts in the Champions League, highlighting the need for greater efficiency against Atletico, known for having the best defense in Spain.

PSG’s current attacking options are led by 22-year-old Bradley Barcola, who has scored eight goals this season, and Ousmane Dembele, contributing five. However, the team lacks a consistent center-forward, with Goncalo Ramos sidelined due to injury and Randal Kolo Muani struggling to find form after his high-profile transfer from Eintracht Frankfurt.

Kolo Muani has become an unused substitute in the last two matches, raising questions about his future at the club. Despite these challenges, Enrique has tried to remain optimistic, stating that the team is scoring more goals and gaining points, but ultimately, the pressure will mount as their Champions League results will determine the team's success this season.

PSG Struggles in Champions League Without Mbappe as Pressure Mounts Ahead of Atletico Clash

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