PSG: should we be worried about Presnel Kimpembe?

A subject had caused a lot of discussion before the Espaly-PSG meeting, namely the possible return to the eleven of Presnel Kimpembe. For the first time since his arrival at the club, Luis Enrique opened the door for the defender to return to the field. But obviously, the scenario of the match and the state of the pitch decided otherwise. “The pitch did not seem suitable to me, it represented a risk for the players. The conditions were not ideal for him to return. He is in the process of improvement. Things have been going better for him in the last month. But the conditions weren't right for it to be his comeback match.”explained, not without criticism towards the Clermont lawn, a stinging Luis Enrique at the end of the match painfully won by PSG against Espaly (4-2).

Because many Parisian supporters, at least worried about this interminable wait, hoped to see the “Parisian titi” play on Wednesday evening and to be reassured about the state of form of the 2018 World champion who has not played since the month of February 2023. Proof of the immense precaution taken by Luis Enrique and by PSG in general to PreskoLE preferred to align a more than experimental hinge composed of Lucas Hernandez and the young Axel Tape, 17 years old without any experience at the highest level. Overtaken in all areas of the game, Tape took on water and we can happily think that Kimpembe's experience would have been useful.

Interested European clubs are cautious about his state of form

But did the latter even have the means? Despite a complicated terrain, this meeting was ideal for the 29-year-old defender to test himself and regain sensations. Arriving with his usual good humor at the stadium in the company of his teammates, the PSG number 3 had proudly shared the photo of his jersey in the Parisian locker room before the match on his networks… before attending the entire match on the sidelines. It now remains to be seen whether he will have the opportunity in the days, or even weeks to come, to be able to show that he has nothing to envy of his defense partners. Because the competition for his position is fierce. Willian Pacho and Marquinhos are essential in central defense, Lucas Hernandez, returning from injury, is applying for the position, while Lucas Beraldo still pleases the Spanish technician. This meeting against Espaly could also have reassured European teams who are far too cautious when it comes to discussing a possible interest in the Parisian defender.

According to our information, the market has been surveyed regarding a possible departure from PSG this winter of Presnel Kimpembe. But again, it doesn't rush. With almost two years without playing and seeing PSG's reluctance towards its defender, we can easily understand them. For the moment conciliatory with his coach, the main interested party who declared a few days ago that he felt “very, very good at the moment” assured that he was patient while waiting for the right moment. If this does not arrive in the coming weeks, there is no doubt that Presko will be able to make himself heard…