PSG v Man United: Safonov, Chevalier, Mbaye, Mayulu, returns, takeaways | OneFootball

This Saturday evening, Paris Saint-Germain drew 1-1 (PSG/Manchester United highlights) against Manchester United in a friendly match at the Ullevi Stadium in Gothenburg. Here are the main takeaways from this result, in no particular order.

Matvey Safonov is stepping up.

The 27-year-old goalkeeper had not been particularly good against Mallorca, though he did not make any notable mistakes either. This time, the overall assessment is clearly positive. The Russian was successful coming off his line and made some fine saves, which is very encouraging for what comes next.

Lucas Chevalier does not play, but Alessandro Longoni does.

On the other hand, Safonov’s “competitor” did not even come on. The message is fairly clear for the 24-year-old goalkeeper. With Zion Suzuki (23, Parma and Japan) potentially on the way, it is fair to wonder whether he would really be the one sent out on loan, as the rumors suggest.

Especially with Alessandro Longoni, the 18-year-old goalkeeper who arrived this summer, coming on in the 75th minute. There is no need to jump to conclusions too quickly, but Chevalier is clearly not being particularly highlighted.

Ibrahim Mbaye and Dro Fernandez decisive.

PSG started strongly, with a very nice team move finished by Dro’s low left-footed cross (the 18-year-old midfielder) for Ibrahim Mbaye (the 18-year-old forward). It is a positive sign to see these two youngsters making the difference. Mbaye has been mentioned as a possible departure and could either be sold on better terms, or stay with renewed confidence. For Dro, it is good to have this momentum to kick off the season.

Senny Mayulu captain again.

As against Mallorca, the 20-year-old midfielder/forward wore the captain’s armband against Manchester United. A strong signal for the Paris academy product, especially since a few other established players were also on the pitch. All the more so at a time when there are questions about what role he can carve out in the squad this season.

The return of 4 key players.

Marquinhos (32-year-old center-back), Nuno Mendes (24-year-old left-back), João Neves (21-year-old midfielder) and Vitinha (26-year-old midfielder) came on in the 61st minute. Their return considerably strengthens the group. These minutes could prove valuable in preparation for Wednesday’s UEFA Super Cup against Aston Villa. Of course, Marquinhos took back the armband when he came on.

Koukaba still logically has to learn, but the potential is there.

Axel Koukaba, the 16-year-old defender, showed a few limitations for the highest level. He was at fault for a clearly avoidable loss of possession on Manchester United’s equalizer and at times struggled one-on-one. However, for this academy player discovering the professional game, it is also worth noting that he stayed focused and made some good recovery runs. There is potential to develop.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.