Started as a starter against Slovan Bratislava (6-1), Maghnes Akliouche continues to gain depth in the PSG rotation. However, his debut in the Parisian jersey was not so obvious. Arriving this summer with a fine reputation after his performances in Monaco, the French international had to deal with fierce competition from the offensive sector and a time of adaptation necessary to the demands of Luis Enrique. His first outings had sometimes left a more mixed impression, with a player still looking for his bearings in a team where each loss of the ball, each movement and each defensive effort are scrutinized. But week after week, Akliouche gradually erased these difficulties and now displays much more personality.
This rise in power has obviously not escaped Luis Enrique, who sees his young recruit quickly adapting to his principles. Holder during this beautiful European evening, Akliouche once again showed that he could be useful in several registers and that he was not limited to his technical qualities. The Parisian coach particularly appreciates his ability to participate in defensive work and to multiply calls, two essential aspects to establish himself sustainably in his system. “We have been watching his performances (in Monaco) for more than a year. He has everything to play for PSG. We signed him this summer. He is one of the players who adapts the quickest to what we want. He has qualities with the ball, a great ability to defend, he also makes deep calls. I’m happy with what I see when he plays and that’s why he plays a lot.”
