Luis Enrique defends PSG decision after Newcastle horror show

After Paris Saint-Germain’s abysmal performance in Newcastle, Luis Enrique was put under the spotlight for his bold tactical decision.

PSG manager Luis Enrique has staunchly defended his decision to deploy a daring 4-2-3-1 formation in the Champions League clash against Newcastle.

At St James’ Park on Wednesday, Enrique started four forwards. He fielded Goncalo Ramos upfront, with Randal Kolo Muani, Kylian Mbappe, and Ousmane Dembele playing just behind the Portuguese.

Neither of the attackers scored though, as PSG crashed to a 4-1 loss. Lucas Hernandez, a full-back, scored the club’s only goal instead.

“I thought it was for the best, and I still do,” Enrique explained in a post-match interview with Canal+.

Despite the emphatic defeat, Enrique considered the result somewhat unfair. But he did congratulate Newcastle for their effective play in the final third and admitted his team made mistakes.

“Those are difficult games to live through for a manager,” the former Barcelona and Spain coach remarked.

“We tried to put in front of their goal as many chances as possible, but we weren’t so effective in the last part of the pitch.”

With the defeat, Enrique’s underwhelming start in Paris continues. The Spaniard has overseen four wins, three draws, and two defeats in his nine games in charge.

PSG have dropped to second in Group F of the Champions League, with Newcastle rising to the top after their convincing victory.

Looking ahead, PSG will hope to bounce back as they face Rennes in Ligue 1 on Sunday. They aim to improve on their fifth position in the league standings, with leaders Monaco holding a two-point advantage.