Luis Enrique Backs Akliouche After PSG’s Champions League Win
Luis Enrique has issued a firm defence of Maghnes Akliouche after criticism followed Paris Saint-Germain’s emphatic Champions League win over Bratislava, insisting the summer recruit is among the quickest players to understand his demands.
The PSG coach has backed the former Monaco attacker despite scrutiny over his lack of goals and assists. Akliouche joined for €50 million (£42m) and is still waiting for his first goal in Paris colours.
Quick facts
- Akliouche arrived from Monaco in a €50m (£42m) summer transfer.
- He has played every PSG match since domestic and European action restarted.
- The forward has logged 372 minutes under Enrique.
- PSG face Brest before taking on Marseille in Le Classique.
Laure Boulleau questioned whether Akliouche had matched the level of PSG’s other attacking options, pointing to his limited direct end product. The former France international accepted that young players can need time to settle, but felt Akliouche had looked below the required rhythm in Europe.
Enrique sees it differently. The Spaniard praised Akliouche’s understanding of PSG’s system, his ability in possession, defensive work and willingness to run beyond opposing back lines.
“Maghnes is one of the players adapting fastest to what we are asking,” Enrique said. “He has many qualities on the ball, can defend well and also attacks the space behind.”
The coach added that he is pleased by what Akliouche delivers in each appearance, and said that trust is the reason the forward has been used so regularly.
Akliouche’s workload reflects that faith. His pressing and defensive contribution fit the demands of Enrique’s setup, while his 372 minutes since the resumption underline his place in the manager’s plans.
What happens next: PSG’s Ligue 1 schedule gives Akliouche two immediate chances to make his mark, starting against Brest before the meeting with Marseille. A first PSG goal — particularly in Le Classique — would answer the remaining doubts around the 20-year-old attacker.
