Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have redefined their identity in European football by clinching their maiden UEFA Champions League title, completing an extraordinary season that also saw them lift Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and the French Super Cup. What sets this season apart from past efforts is not the spending or stardom, but a fundamental shift in philosophy—where team cohesion and youth development took precedence over individual brilliance.
Despite being taken over by Qatar Sports Investments in 2011 and spending a staggering €2.3 billion on transfers, PSG consistently fell short in European competitions. They built star-studded squads featuring Neymar Jr, Lionel Messi, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Thiago Silva, and Sergio Ramos, yet their Champions League ambitions were repeatedly thwarted. Injuries and imbalance plagued the side, with marquee players like Neymar missing over 130 matches in six years due to injury. Coaches found themselves managing egos more than tactics. Thomas Tuchel even joked that his role at PSG was more akin to a “sports minister” than a football coach.
However, the 2024–25 season marked a clear break from that past. Under the guidance of Luis Enrique, PSG embraced a team-first approach that emphasized discipline, work ethic, and tactical flexibility. One defining moment was Enrique benching Ousmane Dembele for disciplinary reasons during the Champions League quarter-final against Arsenal—signaling a shift away from star favoritism. Even though Kylian Mbappe remained central to the team’s attack, scoring 44 goals in his final PSG season, the collective was prioritized over individuals.
Defensive commitment became a hallmark of PSG’s gameplay. The attackers were equally responsible for pressing and recovering possession—a stark contrast to earlier years when forward players rarely tracked back. Enrique highlighted the importance of this transformation, stating how attackers’ defensive contributions were pivotal. Data from The Athletic confirmed this shift, revealing PSG averaged five more tackles per match than the previous season.
The young squad, averaging just 24 years and three months, was integral to PSG’s success. Recruits like Fabian Ruiz, Vitinha, Bradley Barcola, and Joao Neves became key figures. Luis Campos, PSG’s football advisor, played a vital role in this youth-driven recruitment strategy. The club’s ability to switch positions fluidly and maintain a tight defensive structure showcased the strength of its new footballing philosophy.
PSG’s revamped identity was forged not in transfer spending, but in a culture built around discipline, youth, and shared responsibility. With Neymar and Messi departing in 2023, the club made space for emerging talent and a new mindset. Winning the Champions League confirmed the success of this approach and hinted at more silverware on the horizon, including the Club World Cup.
From a star-centric showpiece to a well-oiled unit where the system shines above the player, PSG’s story this season represents a true transformation. It’s no longer just about the glamour of the French capital; it’s about the grit, growth, and the glory that comes from teamwork. “Ici c’est Paris” is no longer just a chant—it’s a statement of purpose.
