The Luis Enrique era at PSG began this Saturday with disappointment. The Parisian team, which is looking to win its twelfth French league, only managed a 0-0 draw, at home, with Brittany's Lorient in the Ligue 1 season opener.
The resounding absence of Mbappé – who watched the game in the stands, along with Dembélé – was noted. Neymar and Verratti did not play either, officially due to health problems although already marked with the stigma of transferables.
Luis Enrique was brave and opted to show, without complexes, the new face of PSG and lined up six new signings from the start. He left the captain, Marquinhos –whose place in defense was occupied by Danilo, who also won the bracelet– and created an unprecedented attacking trio, with Kang-in Lee, Gonçalo Ramos and Asensio.
The first half was almost totally dominated by the Parisians, with 78% possession, although without creating any real danger in the final meters and with very little shot, except for a good chance from Ramos in the 9th minute. The South Korean striker caused very good feelings and, behind, the Uruguayan midfielder Ugarte, who recovered many balls.
In the second period, PSG came out with more bite in front of the Lorient gate, with more willingness to take risks, but their effort proved fruitless. In the 57th minute there was a possible penalty by Lucas Hernández on Faivre in the PSG area but the referee did not whistle it.
The Asturian coach replaced Asensio – who had been more than discreet – with Soler, and Fabián Ruiz with Vitinha. Before, the Bretons also made two changes, in attack (Koné replaced Dieng) and in midfield (Ponceau took over from Makengo). More spaces were created but the game was not unlocked, despite the fact that there were clear chances for both teams. In the final minutes, Luis Enrique brought on Marquinhos for Hernández and Ekitike for Lee in search of final energy that ultimately did not bear the expected results.
The Parque de los Príncipes was not full, despite the expectation generated by the new coach and the fact that PSG celebrated its 53rd birthday yesterday, the same age, by the way, as Luis Enrique. It is certain that with this start to the season, the dispute over Mbappé will heat up even more.
