Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is one of the most successful football clubs in the world. However, the past few seasons have been a rollercoaster ride for the team, with a series of unexpected defeats, controversies, and internal issues. The start of the 2021/22 season was no different, with PSG struggling to find their rhythm in the opening games. However, in recent weeks, the team seems to have turned a corner and is back to winning ways. In this blog post, we will analyze PSG's recent performances and discuss whether the team has indeed turned a corner.
PSG's shaky start to the season
The 2021/22 season started off on a shaky note for PSG. The team struggled in their first few games, drawing with Club Brugge in their opening match of the Champions League group stage and losing to Reims in Ligue 1. The team's performance was a far cry from the star-studded lineup that had been assembled in the summer transfer window, including the likes of Lionel Messi, Sergio Ramos, Gianluigi Donnarumma, and Achraf Hakimi.
PSG's troubles were further compounded by internal issues. There were rumors of a rift between Messi and manager Mauricio Pochettino, and star player Kylian Mbappe was reportedly unhappy with the team's tactics. These reports only added to the pressure on Pochettino, who was already under scrutiny after PSG's disappointing end to the 2020/21 season.
PSG's recent form
However, in recent weeks, PSG's form has taken a turn for the better. The team has won their last six games in Ligue 1, scoring an impressive 18 goals and conceding only four. They have also secured their place in the knockout stages of the Champions League, finishing top of their group with four wins and two draws.
One of the key reasons for PSG's recent success has been the form of their star players. Lionel Messi has started to find his feet in the team, scoring six goals and providing three assists in his last five games. Kylian Mbappe has also been in excellent form, scoring five goals in his last six games. Neymar, who had been out injured for much of the season, has returned to the team and has made an immediate impact, scoring a goal and providing three assists in his last three games.
Another reason for PSG's recent success has been their improved defense. In their last six games, the team has kept four clean sheets, a vast improvement on their early-season form. The addition of Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal has been crucial, and the Italian international has already made some crucial saves to keep his team in games.
PSG's tactical adjustments
One of the reasons for PSG's early-season struggles was their inability to find the right balance in their team. Pochettino was criticized for his defensive tactics, and the team often looked disjointed in attack. However, in recent weeks, Pochettino seems to have found the right formula for his team.
The manager has switched to a 4-3-3 formation, which has allowed his team to play with more attacking freedom. The midfield trio of Marco Verratti, Georginio Wijnaldum, and Idrissa Gueye has provided a solid foundation for the team, allowing the attacking players to focus on their strengths. Messi, Mbappe, and Neymar have been given more freedom to interchange positions and have formed a deadly attacking trio that has been virtually unstoppable in recent weeks.
Pochettino has also been praised for his man-management skills, particularly with regards to Messi. The manager has reportedly given the Argentine more freedom in the team, allowing him to play in a position.
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