Paris Saint-Germain's (PSG) remarkable unbeaten run in the 2024/2025 Ligue 1 season is a testament to their strategic mastery under the guidance of Luis Enrique. With 26 matches played, PSG remains undefeated, securing a commanding position at the top of the table with a 19-point lead over their closest rivals, Marseille. This unprecedented success is the result of a meticulously crafted tactical framework that leverages the team's depth, versatility, and the individual brilliance of key players.
Tactical Versatility and Adaptation
Luis Enrique has instilled a fluid tactical approach in PSG, allowing the team to transition seamlessly between different setups based on their opponents. This adaptability has been crucial in maintaining their unbeaten streak. Enrique often employs a 4-3-3 formation, emphasizing ball control and creating overloads in wide areas. Key to this strategy is the use of wing-backs such as Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes, who provide width and penetration, allowing the wingers to cut inside and create goal-scoring opportunities.
In matches against more defensively resolute teams, PSG has shown a propensity to switch to a 3-4-3 or even a 4-2-3-1 formation, which enhances their attacking options. This tactical flexibility was on display during their recent 3-1 victory over Marseille, where strategic shifts nullified Marseille's threats and exposed defensive gaps (Le Monde).
Defensive Solidity
The backbone of PSG's success lies in their defensive solidity, with Marquinhos and Milan Škriniar forming a formidable central pairing. Their understanding and coordination have been instrumental in reducing the number of clear chances afforded to opposition teams. PSG has conceded only 14 goals in the league so far, underscoring their defensive prowess. This disciplined defensive setup allows the team to absorb pressure and launch quick counter-attacks, a tactic effectively used against top-tier opponents.
Attacking Flair and Key Contributors
PSG's attacking prowess is equally formidable, with the team scoring 67 goals in the league to date. Kylian Mbappé, with his blistering pace and clinical finishing, remains the focal point of PSG's attack. His partnership with Neymar Jr. and newcomer Ousmane Dembélé has been devastating for defenses across the league. In the match against Marseille, this trio was pivotal, with Mbappé netting a brace that sealed the victory (RFI).
Midfield dynamism is provided by Marco Verratti and Vitinha, who have excelled in controlling the tempo of matches and facilitating the transition from defense to attack. Verratti's vision and passing range are complemented by Vitinha's energy and pressing, making PSG a formidable force in both offensive and defensive phases.
Depth and Emerging Talents
PSG's squad depth has been a significant advantage, allowing Enrique to rotate players without compromising performance levels. Emerging talents like Warren Zaïre-Emery have been integrated into the first team, providing fresh legs and additional tactical options. This squad rotation has kept the team competitive across multiple competitions, including their recent triumph in the UEFA Champions League against Liverpool.
Conclusion
Paris Saint-Germain's unbeaten run in the 2024/2025 Ligue 1 season is a product of strategic foresight, tactical flexibility, and the seamless blend of experienced internationals and promising young players. Under Luis Enrique's stewardship, PSG has not only dominated the domestic league but also positioned themselves as serious contenders for European glory. As the season progresses, maintaining this high level of performance will be key to securing yet another Ligue 1 title and potentially achieving unprecedented success on the international stage.
PSG's journey this season serves as a benchmark for tactical excellence and squad management, illustrating how a well-rounded team can achieve success by leveraging its strengths and addressing its weaknesses with precision and purpose. For PSG, the remainder of the season holds the promise of further accolades, provided they continue to execute their game plan with the same determination and flair that has characterized their campaign thus far.