Julien Laurens believes that Kylian Mbappe is the best player in PSG’s history, while Luis Enrique has introduced a new mindset to the team.
TNT Sports expert Julien Laurens, a renowned sports journalist from England, has hailed Kylian Mbappe as the greatest player in the history of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). However, Laurens believes that manager Luis Enrique will play a crucial role in PSG’s Champions League semi-final against Borussia Dortmund.
Both PSG and Dortmund have defied expectations this season by reaching the final four, with PSG aiming to win the Champions League for the first time. Speaking ahead of the first leg, Laurens highlighted the impact of Enrique since his arrival in the summer.
Laurens stated, “There’s definitely a different mentality this year to any I’ve seen before. I think it’s due to a few things. This is clearly the last season before there’s a big change, in the sense that Mbappe will leave after seven years.”
He also emphasized the influence of Enrique, stating, “There’s no nonsense with Enrique, he’s the star and he’s always said that he just wanted a team where everybody played for each other, and not just superstars that play for themselves.”
Laurens further explained that the timing of these changes has contributed to a more harmonious dressing room, with fewer ego clashes. He noted the absence of players like Messi, Neymar, and Veratti, who were influential figures in the dressing room.
Regarding Mbappe, Laurens acknowledged his previous ego issues but highlighted a change in attitude this season. He attributed this change to the “Last Dance” type of season, where Mbappe is determined to make the most of his time at PSG before his departure.
Laurens also praised Enrique’s ability to handle egos in the dressing room, stating, “I think managers like Luis Enrique don’t mind having egos in the dressing room because they know that in the end, they will win the battle anyway because his ego is bigger than anybody else’s in that dressing room.”
In terms of Mbappe’s legacy at PSG, Laurens believes he is already the greatest player in the club’s history, surpassing the likes of George Weah, David Ginola, Ronaldinho, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic. He also expressed confidence that Mbappe’s record will never be beaten and that winning the Champions League would solidify his status as the leader of the team.
Despite his imminent departure, PSG fans have not turned on Mbappe, as they want to enjoy his presence before he leaves. Laurens highlighted the potential for PSG to achieve an unprecedented quadruple this season and praised Mbappe for his contributions over the past seven years.
In conclusion, Laurens believes that Mbappe’s legacy at PSG is already secure, but winning the Champions League would be the perfect ending to his time at the club.