Last night, at St James’ Park, Paris Saint-Germain experienced one of their worst evenings in the Champions League. Defeated 4 goals to 1 by Newcastle, the capital club did not say goodbye to qualification for the round of 16, but its unworthy performance in this competition says a lot about the storytelling sold by its leaders on their new project. Especially since the central element of this “new PSG”, Kylian Mbappé, was wrecked.
With only one shot on the clock, no dribble attempted and the third lowest total number of balls touched on his team (51), the 2018 world champion clearly missed his match. A poor performance (rated 2.5/10 by our editorial team) accompanied by a nonchalant attitude which contrasted with the exceptional commitment of the Magic throughout the match. Arriving at St James’ Park with the label of best player in the world, Mbappé logically took it for his rank in the aftermath of the Parisian fiasco.
Mbappé, “it was more Jordi than Johan” Cruyff
“In its desire to become the king of Europe, PSG modified its transfer strategy this summer, abandoning the “Galactics” Lionel Messi and Neymar in favor of a younger French team. Mbappé’s body language during Newcastle’s goals gave the impression of someone who would rather be somewhere else – unsurprising given his recent transfer adventures. This individualistic state of mind is the opposite of the message that PSG is trying to send in this new era.writing Skysports.
“The “best player in the world”, according to his manager, was a pale pastiche of himself during the 4-1 defeat in the Champions League”publishes for its part the Guardian. But the most notable “compliment” of the day comes from Daily Mail. “Kylian Mbappé appeared to lack enthusiasm and ideas during PSG’s 4-1 defeat to Newcastle, with the French star failing to impress at St James’ Park. When Kylian Mbappé tried to rouse himself and his team by attempting a bold Cruyff-style move on the touchline, the execution spoke volumes about their failed evening. It was more Jordi than Johan”. Mbappé will appreciate it.
