All You Need to Know About Paris Saint-Germain: Ballon d’Or, Possession Strategies, and Key Absences
As Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) prepares to face AS Monaco at Stade Louis-II, there are crucial updates to highlight regarding the Parisian squad. This matchup, integral to the Ligue 1 season, is scheduled for Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 17:00. Currently, PSG stands as the leader of the league after an impressive start to the 2024-2025 season, which has seen them accumulate 30 points across 13 matches.
PSG’s Stellar Season
The 2024-2025 season has been remarkable for PSG. Under the guidance of coach Luis Enrique, the team clinched the UEFA Champions League title with a resounding 5-0 victory against Inter Milan. In addition to the Champions League, PSG also secured the Ligue 1 title, Coupe de France, and the UEFA Super Cup. However, they fell short in the Club World Cup, losing 3-0 to Chelsea in the final.
Ousmane Dembélé’s Ballon d’Or Triumph
One of the standout players for PSG this season has been Ousmane Dembélé. The French forward scored 35 goals and provided 16 assists, earning him the prestigious Ballon d’Or, thereby becoming the sixth French player to receive this honor. His journey from Évreux to stardom exemplifies his dedication and talent.
Key Players and Recent Changes
- Lucas Chevalier: Newly arrived goalkeeper from the transfer market, replacing Gianluigi Donnarumma who joined Manchester City.
- Ilya Zabarnyi: The Ukrainian defender enhances the team’s defense, coming in from Bournemouth.
Challenges Ahead
Despite their strong performance, PSG faces significant challenges with key absences due to injuries. Players such as Désiré Doué, Achraf Hakimi, and Nuno Mendes will miss the upcoming match against Monaco. Hakimi, in particular, has been vocal about his recovery, expressing optimism regarding his return.
Possession Strategy
PSG maintains a strong possession strategy, averaging over 55% ball control in their Ligue 1 games this season. This approach, characterized by high pressing and decisive moment execution, has been pivotal in their performance despite the absences.
Upcoming Match Insights
With a match against AS Monaco approaching, both teams are familiar opponents with rich histories. This encounter will also be special for Thilo Kehrer, now with Monaco after previously playing for PSG. A total of 38 players have donned the jerseys of both clubs throughout their history, highlighting the intertwined nature of these teams.
Young Talents on Display
PSG continues to cultivate emerging talents, including:
- Senny Mayulu: Notable for his surprising performance, including a goal in the Champions League final.
- Ibrahim Mbaye: Recognized for his impressive contributions in terms of both defense and offense, recently scoring for Senegal.
This weekend’s clash promises an exciting display of football as PSG looks to consolidate its league position while navigating player absences and maintaining their winning form.