Akleouch Plays Key Role with Paris Saint-Germain
Magnus Akleouch plays a pivotal role with Paris Saint-Germain after scoring a goal and shining against Manchester City, boosting his confidence and earning praise from coach Luis Enrique.
Translated by Qiyas from الراي — Original source
Paris, AFP – Magnès Akliouche is playing a more important role in the Paris Saint-Germain lineup after starting and scoring against English side Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League, giving the impression that he is gaining further confidence.
His Spanish coach, Luis Enrique, said last weekend: “I love everything Magnès Akliouche does: the way he plays as a striker, winger, and midfielder, and his technical and physical abilities. I am very happy to have him.” He praised Akliouche’s ability to fill multiple positions and his “defensive capabilities,” which are his two standout qualities.
This is not the first time the coach has publicly backed the former Monaco player in the media, as he often does with new signings or when his players are not at their best.
After scoring his first goal last Saturday against Lorient (3-1) in Ligue 1, the French national team player (12 caps, one goal) undoubtedly gained more confidence following a relatively quiet start to the season.
He continued his impressive form four days later in the big match against Manchester City (4-2), taking advantage of a mistake by Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. He was also instrumental in the third goal scored by Portuguese winger Vitinha, thanks to his run down the right flank.
At the Etihad Stadium, Akliouche, of Algerian origin, looked free in his movements and very comfortable with the ball, justifying the surprise decision to start him over Georgian forward Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
At 24, he participated in this summer’s World Cup in North America with the French national team. Meanwhile, after months of negotiations, he transferred to Paris Saint-Germain for €50 million (approximately $56 million).
The player, who also took part in the first training camp under new France coach Zinedine Zidane, benefiting from Warren Zaïre-Emery’s injury absence, said: “I grew up in the Île-de-France region, and joining a club of this size means a lot to me.”
When asked about his relatively calm personality, Luis Enrique declined to go into detail, saying: “I should talk more about the player than the person. His manner of expression doesn’t matter; what matters is the high level of football. He started the season brilliantly and can play in almost every position. I am very happy with his adaptation.”
Upon arriving in Paris, Akliouche set his goal, stating: “Currently, my aim is to integrate well, develop, and be effective on the pitch.” However, Enrique insisted that adapting to the playing style he employs is “easy.”
