PSG’s rise: How Luis Enrique’s vision and Mbappé’s departure led to better performance in Champions League

PSG's Champions League journey and newfound unity captivate French fans, hinting at a historic title win.

Will this finally be the year for Paris Saint-Germain? The year when more than a decade of spending lavishly on players can at last bring the Qatari-backed French club its first Champions League title?

The signs are there for all to see. This rejuvenated PSG side is rock-solid and playing some of the best football in Europe. Luis Enrique’s players' defeat of favourites Liverpool in the last 16 tie on Tuesday (March 11, 2025) night at Anfield after a thrilling penalty shootout showed that anything is now possible for PSG.

Here is a look at the reasons behind PSG’s gradual progress this season, and how they knocked out Europe’s top team after trailing 1-0 from the first leg in Paris to advance to the quarterfinals.

ALSO READ: Neymar says Mbappé was jealous of Messi in Paris, adds that player egos hurt PSG's performances

It’s ironic, but the first stone was laid with the departure from PSG of one of the best players in the world.

Kylian Mbappé's decision to leave for Real Madrid last summer opened the door for Enrique to impose his views that a well-oiled team playing as a unit would be more efficient than a squad relying on the genius of the France forward.

The big hole left by Mbappé was not filled by yet another superstar. It was a major change at a club where for more than a decade owners had spent lavishly to attract big names such as Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Lionel Messi and Neymar.