Luis Enrique, PSG's head coach, concluded his first season with an air of cautious optimism after their 2-1 victory against Lyon in the Coupe de France final. "Until the last match is over, there can be no assessment," Enrique stated on the eve of the final. This victory marks the successful end of the 2023-24 season for PSG, which, under the new era decreed by club president Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, also saw triumphs in the Champions Trophy and Ligue 1.
The season was not without its complexities. PSG's approach this year was markedly different from previous seasons characterized by heavy financial burdens and high-profile signings like Neymar and Kylian Mbappé. This season aimed for a more collective and financially prudent team. Even though PSG has a significantly higher budget than its Ligue 1 counterparts, the management sought to create a harmonious unit. As Al-Khelaïfi noted, "I saw something that I had never seen in 13 years (at the head of the club), everyone together, everyone fighting for each other."
Despite the domestic success, the French giant still harbors European regrets. The team reached the Champions League semi-finals but was eliminated without scoring against Dortmund, a defeat that left a bitter taste. However, reaching this stage with a young and new team was considered an achievement.
One of the major highlights of the season was the unity of the club. Last season, the relationship between the players, management, and supporters was strained, culminating in a fan protest outside Neymar's house. This season saw a marked improvement in club cohesion, partly due to the departure of Neymar and Lionel Messi. The club's renewed sense of unity is a positive sign for the future.
In Ligue 1, PSG made history by being the first team to finish a season without an away defeat. However, there is an acknowledgment that the team will need to up their game next season, especially with more competition expected from clubs like Monaco and Lyon.
The transfer window, which saw PSG invest €235 million, had mixed results. High-profile signings like Randal Kolo Muani, Gonçalo Ramos, and Manuel Ugarte were not utilized as expected. The more successful additions included Lucas Hernandez and Ousmane Dembélé.
Kylian Mbappé's season was filled with its own drama. Despite scoring 44 goals and 10 assists in 47 matches, his decision to not renew his contract has left a significant impact. The coach emphasized that replacing Mbappé would not be done by one player but by a collective effort from the team.
Vitinha emerged as a standout player this season. Enrique praised him as "the player of the season," lauding his play on the ball, defensive abilities, and overall impact on the team. Other notable contributions came from players like Achraf Hakimi, Warren Zaire-Emery, and Nuno Mendes whose return from injury bolstered the team.
There are substantial off-field issues to address as well, foremost among them being the club's search for a new stadium. Al-Khelaïfi has confirmed that PSG is officially looking to move, with a preference to stay in the west of Paris. The addition of a new shareholder, Arctos, may influence these developments.
- Luis Enrique reflected on the season, expressing special admiration for his team's ambition and offensive style. He commended the players' relentless energy and pressing throughout the season.
- The coach acknowledged the difficult nature of the season, particularly with Mbappé's decision to leave. He emphasized the collective effort required to fill the void left by such a talented player.
- Enrique aims to have a successful transfer window to further strengthen the team. He mentioned the importance of players' adaptation times, indicating that team improvements are an ongoing process.
- Enrique also expressed regret over the violent incidents before the last match, condemning all forms of violence in football. He hopes for a peaceful and exciting future for the sport.
- Looking forward, Enrique plans to participate actively in negotiations and preparations for the next season. Despite the end of the current season, his commitment remains steadfast as he continues to work towards building a stronger team.
