Why are PSG using Randal Kolo Muani so sparingly? | OneFootball

Even despite Kylian Mbappé’s summer departure, Randal Kolo Muani (25) is struggling to get a look-in at Paris Saint-Germain. The former FC Nantes forward struggled with the pressure of the €100m price tag last season, following his move from the Bundesliga, however, it was expected that he would feature more prominently this season.

Over the summer, he retained the trust of France manager Didier Deschamps, who started Kolo Muani in the semi-final against Spain in the Euros; he scored France’s one and only goal from open play in that tournament. However, earning the trust of Luis Enrique at PSG has been more difficult, despite the Spaniard’s public backing.

Kolo Muani has started just one game all season, despite injuries to Gonçalo Ramos, seemingly his biggest rival for the No.9 position, and Marco Asensio. The latter is already back following a short injury lay-off and he is frequently preferred to Kolo Muani.

Kolo Muani to start against Arsenal?

Luis Enrique has thus far chosen to play with a false nine this season and L’Équipe understands that Luis Enrique sees Kolo Muani as lacking the technicality to fulfil the role. It is this weakness in particular that is seeing his path to the starting XI blocked. The publication also understands that the Frenchman’s signing was a decision taken by president Nasser Al-Khelaifi, with Luis Enrique and Luís Campos less keen on bringing the forward to the Parc des Princes in the summer of 2023.

Kolo Muani is able to play out on the right, however, Ousmane Dembélé has that role looked down. But in the absence of the former Barcelona winger, omitted from the squad for disciplinary reasons, Kolo Muani may just get his chance against Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday. If he does get the chance, he will have to be sure to take it; who knows when the next chance will present itself.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle