Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy has shed light on the benefits of Paris Saint-Germain’s new approach to building a squad, which no longer includes global superstars like Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappe. With PSG previously known for bringing in high-profile names such as David Beckham and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Sarkozy believes that a new direction under head coach Luis Enrique is a necessary step in the club’s evolution.
Since Qatar Sports Investments took over PSG, the club had adopted a “Galacticos” style recruitment strategy similar to Real Madrid’s, signing the biggest names in world football. This helped build PSG’s international brand, but according to Sarkozy, the time for a change has arrived.
Sarkozy on the Star Era
In an interview with Le Parisien, Sarkozy reflected on PSG’s star-studded past, praising the contributions of some of the biggest names in football but also emphasizing the need for a shift in focus. “The era of PSG with stars was undoubtedly necessary to create an international brand image,” said Sarkozy. “And I won’t forget the joy of having seen Ibrahimovic, Neymar, Messi, Beckham, and Mbappe play… It was exceptional. It was probably time to remind people that team play takes precedence over the quality of a player. That’s the exact philosophy of the current coach.”
Luis Enrique, who took over as PSG manager in 2023, has moved away from the “superstar culture,” focusing more on collective strength and team cohesion rather than relying on individual brilliance. Sarkozy believes this approach will help PSG find success in the long term.
Mbappe’s Exit and the Bigger Picture
The departure of Kylian Mbappe to Real Madrid in the summer of 2024 marked the end of an era for PSG. Mbappe, who had been with the club for seven years and is its all-time leading scorer, left as a free agent, opting not to sign a new contract that could have earned PSG a transfer fee.
Sarkozy also commented on Mbappe’s move, acknowledging the player’s contribution to the club while expressing some concern over how he handled his exit. “Kylian gave seven years to the club – you can’t forget that. He gave us extraordinary emotions,” Sarkozy said. “I can understand that he wanted to leave. I understand his dream, but I find it more difficult to understand the way in which he carried it out, but it’s his choice.”
Despite losing Mbappe, Messi, and Neymar, PSG has shown resilience under Enrique, earning 13 points from five Ligue 1 matches this season as they embrace a more balanced team-oriented strategy.
