Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique is embracing the opportunity to steer a squad no longer centered around a global superstar. Following the recent departures of Neymar, Lionel Messi, and Kylian Mbappé, the spotlight is now on the collective strength of the team. Enrique views this as a fresh chapter, where the focus shifts to the power of teamwork rather than individual brilliance.
With the exit of these football icons, Enrique sees the chance to cultivate a unified team spirit. He believes this transition will allow PSG to evolve into a squad where every player plays an integral role, rather than relying on star power to carry the club. For Enrique, the team’s success will now rest on its cohesion, strategy, and depth rather than the individual achievements of a few.
This new dynamic is a challenge Enrique relishes, as it gives him the opportunity to implement his vision of a well-rounded team that can thrive on the collective efforts of all its members. The coach is confident that PSG can maintain its elite status in European football by prioritizing unity and strategic gameplay over the influence of a single superstar.
Following PSG’s 1-0 victory over Girona in their Champions League opener, Luis Enrique was asked about how his players are adjusting to the absence of a marquee star. Speaking to TNT Sports Brasil, he responded with a clear message: “Yes, there is still a star. A star that shines brighter than any individual — the team. The team itself is the true star.”
Enrique went on to emphasize the importance of unity, describing it as “amazing.” He expressed his desire to instill this mindset in his players, encouraging them to embrace the philosophy of working together. Drawing inspiration from The Three Musketeers, he added, “On the pitch, it’s one for all and all for one. In a team sport, that is truly marvellous.”
During last season, Luis Enrique frequently voiced his frustration with journalists repeatedly questioning him about Kylian Mbappé during press conferences. The constant focus on the star player overshadowed the broader aspects of PSG’s performance and team dynamics.
Mbappé, 25, departed PSG this summer after his contract ended, following a career-defining season in which he scored an impressive 44 goals in 48 matches. The French captain joined Real Madrid as a free agent, a year after PSG had already seen the exits of other global stars, Lionel Messi and Neymar.
Argentina captain Lionel Messi made his move to Inter Miami in July 2023, following two years with Paris Saint-Germain. Soon after, Neymar left PSG as well, signing with Saudi Pro League giants Al Hilal after six seasons in Paris. Their departures marked the end of an era for PSG, as the club transitioned away from its superstar-led approach.
Despite these high-profile exits, PSG has had a flawless start to their season, showing no signs of slowing down. The team has won all their matches so far, netting an impressive 13 goals in their opening four league games as they chase their fourth consecutive league title.
