In the summer of 2021, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) assembled a superstar roster featuring Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappé, driven by financial backing from Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund. Despite boasting one of the world’s highest payrolls, PSG struggled to gain a Champions League title, exiting in the round of 16 in 2022 and 2023, while the trio played together infrequently.
Fast forward to 2023, PSG has transformed its approach, shifting from a star-dependent system to a more cohesive team dynamic under manager Luis Enrique. The club, which historically obeyed the star player system, remade its roster, emphasizing youth and collective effort. With a younger average squad age of 25 compared to their older competitors, PSG aims to develop players through its training programs.
PSG’s management has changed its focus, downplaying obsession with winning the Champions League in favor of nurturing younger talent, like the breakout stars Désiré Doué and Bradley Barcola. Under Enrique’s direction, the team shifted tactics; they demonstrated high passing accuracy and possession rates in Champions League play, reflecting a team-oriented ethos where every player is committed.
A significant transformation came via the rejuvenation of Ousmane Dembélé, who was given freedom to exploit his potential, resulting in impressive goal tallies. PSG has reined in its payroll to $220 million, still substantial but reflective of a new strategy prioritizing teamwork over individual brilliance. This redefined identity has led PSG to the Champions League final against Internazionale of Milan, marking a potential historic moment for a club previously burdened by high expectations but lacking tangible success in Europe’s elite competition.
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