When Luis Enrique took the reins at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the summer of 2023, many expressed both excitement and apprehension. The question was whether his attempt to implement a system-based approach, moving away from the existing star system centered around Kylian Mbappé, would succeed. However, successfully leading the team through the 2024-2025 season, with a Ligue 1 title and a Champions League final appearance (as of June 1st, 2025) within reach, Luis Enrique's tactics are now considered to have brought about a significant change at PSG. Having previously proven his managerial prowess by achieving a treble with Barcelona, he's building his PSG team based on his own firm football philosophy.
Under Luis Enrique, PSG demonstrates organic movement that goes beyond the apparent 4-3-3 formation. During build-up play, the back four often transforms into a three-man defense, with one full-back pushing forward to join the attack. This aims to relieve pressure from the back and create numerical superiority on the flanks. The constant positional rotation across the pitch disrupts opposing defenses and creates space. Players like Dembélé, a 'crack' type player, move between central and wide positions, sometimes acting as a false nine, while midfielders actively contribute to attacks. This maximizes individual creativity and tactical flexibility. My analysis of the matches reveals the impressive teamwork, with players not confined to fixed positions but constantly moving to support each other.
Another key element is the high press. PSG employs organized pressure to disrupt opponents' build-up and win the ball high up the pitch. The midfield's high energy and mobility are effective in cutting off passing lanes and quickly regaining possession. Successful pressing is immediately followed by rapid, vertical attacks to create scoring opportunities. This swift transition, before the opposition defense can reorganize, proves highly destructive. This reflects Luis Enrique's preference for pressing and quick counter-attacks, a hallmark of his Barcelona days.
Luis Enrique excels at identifying individual player characteristics and utilizing them tactically. He uses a wide range of players, fostering competition and making bold decisions, including shifting players to different positions. This enhances the team's tactical flexibility and creates unpredictable attacking patterns. While some players may find themselves in unfamiliar roles, the manager uses this to test mental strength and attitude, uncovering the resources the team needs. I believe this is crucial for maximizing squad use and unlocking the team's full potential.
While favoring attacking tactics, Luis Enrique doesn't neglect defensive solidity. He maintains an organized defensive structure based on zonal marking, effectively thwarting attacks. During build-up play, center-backs and midfielders work together to maintain numerical superiority and move the ball forward safely. This ensures possession dominance even under intense pressure. Donnarumma and the backline provide a stable base, with younger players adding dynamism to the team.
In the 2024-2025 season, under Luis Enrique, PSG dominated domestically, winning the Ligue 1 title. They also challenged for the club's first-ever Champions League title, enjoying a successful season. They are praised for integrating young talent into the system after Mbappé's departure, strengthening the squad. While some question certain player choices or specific performances, overall, Luis Enrique has instilled a new identity at PSG and unleashed the team's potential. The future of PSG under Luis Enrique and the football they will produce is eagerly awaited.
Q: What are the main tactical features of Luis Enrique's approach?
A: Organic positional play and rotation, intense pressing, rapid transitions, player-specific utilization, and a focus on stable build-up play from the back.
Q: How successful was PSG in the 2024-2025 season?
A: They won Ligue 1 and reached the Champions League final.
Q: What type of players does Luis Enrique tend to favor?
A: He utilizes a wide range of players, encouraging internal competition and emphasizing the use of individual player strengths. Lee Kang-in, for example, is deployed in various positions, reflecting the manager's experimental approach.
Q: How is Luis Enrique's tactical approach generally evaluated?
A: It's viewed positively for giving PSG a new identity and maximizing potential, though some criticize certain player selections.
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