Rennes v PSG: how Torres and Ruiz changed Paris, the analysis | OneFootball

Here is the next installment in our “analysis” series, with a look back in pictures at a Paris Saint-Germain match in order to bring out a few key points. The sequences here come from the 2-2 draw against Rennes (Rennes/PSG video highlights) at Roazhon Park on Matchday 1 of Ligue 1 2026-2027. The two goals are included, with assists from Fabian Ruiz (30-year-old midfielder) for Ferran Torres (26-year-old forward), as well as the latter’s pass to Désiré Doué (21-year-old midfielder/forward) in the 75th minute at 2-1.

The situation when Fabian Ruiz looks up for the 2-1 goal.

Caption: – Orange circle: the players being discussed – Everything in black: the possible options – Everything in red: what happened after the image. Line = pass – Arrow = movement – White circle = ball

At this point, the danger is not obvious since Ruiz is far from goal and Torres is offside. However, the moment the midfielder looks up to find a pass, the Spanish forward immediately starts moving to show that a through ball will be possible. He does it with that famous curved run to avoid offside while building up speed.

It is worth noting that Mika Godts (21-year-old forward) could have done the same thing, perhaps even more easily given Rennes’ rather scattered defensive line. But he is more in the same dynamic as the rest of the team, no doubt a little too static. We know PSG’s possession game, which is essential and effective. But they also need to know how to add tempo and depth. While the midfield is blocked by Rennes and Paris are a bit at a standstill, Torres adds a major dose of sharpness.

Ruiz does too, and that should not be overlooked. The Spaniard also added this essential element, whereas the other Paris midfielders have sometimes lacked boldness. He looked farther ahead and dared to play that ball in behind. This is also an area for improvement for the Parisians, who can sometimes be a little too “safe” in their play. It is about finding the right balance between possession and trying to score.

The situation when Ruiz gathers information for the 2-2 goal.

Caption: – Orange circle: the players being discussed – Everything in black: the possible options – Everything in red: what happened after the image. Line = pass – Arrow = movement – White circle = ball

It is a bit the same idea here, with Ruiz closer to goal, but also in a position where Paris midfielders tend to circulate around the box. That is something that needs to be done at times, but they also need to know how to be incisive. That also comes from the runs being made.

Once again, several Paris players are rather stationary, or even facing away from the opposition goal. We can see that Rennes have packed the area in front of Ruiz in order to stop any attempt to break through with a pass or a dribble.

But Torres signals to him and immediately makes his run, while his compatriot does not hesitate to send over a cross. A delightful one too, perfectly finished by Spain’s striker. He also shows another asset he can bring, with his heading ability.

The situation when Torres is played in on the counter at 2-1.

Caption: – Orange circle: the players being discussed – Everything in black: the possible options – Everything in red: what happened after the image. Line = pass – Arrow = movement – White circle = ball

It was not just about the goals or running in behind, Torres also brought intelligence and selflessness. It is worth highlighting that he takes in the information before receiving the ball and uses it to quickly choose to play in Doué (who then misses the target).

The forward could also have tried to finish on his own, either by driving forward more or with a first-time shot, as Brice Samba’s advanced positioning left space that could have been exploited. Perhaps Torres, in better physical shape, would have tried to carry the ball farther. But that is not certain. He knows his qualities and the importance of the team. That can only be a positive, especially as there have been moments of individualism since the restart.

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