Maghnes Akliouche gains confidence at PSG

Maghnes Akliouche, who started and scored against Manchester City in the Champions League, is becoming more involved in Paris Saint-Germain's play and appears to be gaining confidence within the club. His performances have shown a growing influence on the team's dynamics.

Luis Enrique praises Akliouche's versatility

Luis Enrique praised Akliouche's versatility and defensive abilities, stating he is very happy to have him. This is not the first time the coach has publicly supported the former Monaco player, as is his habit when supporting his recruits or when his players are not in their best form.

Akliouche's confidence grows after scoring

Akliouche said he receives a lot of confidence from the coach and his staff, which is very important. In scoring his first goal against Le Mans on Saturday, the French international (12 caps, one goal) has gained a bit more confidence after a rather dull start to the season.

Key moments in Champions League match

He followed this up four days later during the match against Manchester City (4-2) in the Champions League, helped by a handball error by Gianluigi Donnarumma. He was also responsible for Vitinha's third goal through an overlapping run on the right side.

Akliouche's performance at Etihad Stadium

At the Etihad Stadium, the native of Tremblay-en-France appeared free in his movements and very comfortable with the ball at his feet. He justified his surprise starting position in place of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

Akliouche's personal journey and transfer

Akliouche previously told AFP that pressure pushes him to raise his standards as long as he knows how to manage it. He put the pressure on himself but said it does not bother him if people push him. He emphasized that Monaco is his club.

Recent developments in Akliouche's career

Since this interview, a lot has changed. At 24 years old, he played in the World Cup this summer in the United States with the French team. His transfer to PSG for a fee of 50 million euros was finalized after discussions that had started several months earlier.

Akliouche's connection to PSG

Akliouche said having grown up in Île-de-France, joining such a prestigious club means a lot to him. He participated in the first gathering of the French team under the era of Zinédine Zidane, benefiting from the absence of Warren Zaïre-Emery.

Challenges at PSG and former coach's view

His room for improvement lies in his regularity at the highest level, even more so necessary at PSG, where competition in attack is tough. His former coach at Monaco, Sébastien Pocognoli, acknowledged that Akliouche has ups and downs, which is quite disturbing in the analysis.

Akliouche's self-assessment and off-field persona

This assessment, the Parisian has also made: "I need to be more consistent." Off the field, he can seem shy. When asked on Friday about his rather quiet personality, Luis Enrique did not wish to elaborate, saying he should talk more about the player than the person.

Enrique's focus on performance

He emphasized that high-level performance depends on footballing level. Akliouche started the season brilliantly and can play almost anywhere. Enrique is very happy with his adaptation.

Akliouche's goals and adaptation to PSG

Upon his arrival in Paris, Akliouche set his goal: "for now, it's to integrate well, to progress, and to be performant on the field." Enrique affirmed that adapting to the style of play he implements "is easy." He emphasized that running like crazy depends on technical quality and mentality, and that being ready to attack and defend is the key.