Luis Enrique defends 4-2-4 tactics in PSG’s crushing 4-1 Champions League defeat at Newcastle & claims final score flattered the Magpies

Luis Enrique has found himself in the midst of scrutiny and critique following Paris Saint-Germain’s recent 4-1 defeat to Newcastle in the Champions League. The tactical approach employed by Enrique, using a bold 4-2-4 formation, has drawn attention and raised questions about its effectiveness.

Despite venturing to St James’ Park, where the exuberant home crowd fervently supported their beloved Magpies, PSG showed no signs of toning down their ambition. The team led by Luis Enrique persisted with their attack-minded tactics, fielding a starting lineup that boasted the attacking prowess of Ousmane Dembele, Randal Kolo Muani, Goncalo Ramos, and the formidable Kylian Mbappe.

Unfortunately for PSG, their unwavering ambition came at a cost as they found themselves vulnerable at the back, repeatedly exposed by a spirited Newcastle side. The Magpies quickly gained the upper hand, scoring three goals within the first 50 minutes of the match, leaving the visitors visibly shell-shocked.

In the aftermath of the defeat, Luis Enrique defended his chosen tactics and expressed his beliefs to Canal+. He acknowledged the seemingly unfair result but commended Newcastle for their impressive display of football. Enrique stated, “I thought it was for the best, and I still do. Those are difficult games for a manager to navigate. Though the result may appear somewhat unjust, I must congratulate Newcastle for their superb performance. They were exceptionally effective in the final third while we made some costly mistakes. It is difficult to accept our shortcomings. Our attempts to create numerous goal-scoring opportunities were met with limited success. However, the final scoreline seems excessive. We did not deserve such a defeat.”

Interestingly, Lucas Hernandez, a PSG player, appeared to imply that the team had perhaps erred in their tactical choices. He indirectly pointed out that the decision to field four forwards was ultimately the manager’s prerogative, but conceded that it had failed to yield the desired outcome. Both Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle now find themselves in a fierce battle for progression in Group F, alongside Borussia Dortmund and AC Milan, as they aim to secure a spot in the last-16 stage of the Champions League.