Former Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Fernandez has said that Kylian Mbappe can turn the tie on its head during the second leg tie of the UEFA Champions League quarter-final against Barcelona.
“Kylian can change this situation – why? Because he already has,” said Fernandez as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.
On Tuesday, PSG face the daunting challenge of reversing a 2-3 deficit from their first-leg clash in France.
This match stands out as the pivotal moment of their season, carrying immense significance as the Champions League trophy under Nasser Al-Khelaifi’s reign hangs in the balance.
Mbappe will be tough to stop
Of particular note is the impending departure of Mbappe to Real Madrid, adding emotional weight to the encounter. With this potentially marking his final season with PSG, the French side is poised to fight fiercely.
“He will surely be very motivated because between now and next Tuesday he will hear criticism,” added Fernandez
Kylian Mbappe struggled against Pau Cubarsi during the first leg. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images)
“He has the mind to feed on it. He is a champion, he already did it with the French national team, why wouldn’t he do it with Paris Saint-Germain?”
It is to be noted that during the first-leg tie in France, Mbappe encountered formidable opposition from Barcelona’s 17-year-old defender Pau Cubarsi.
Notably, Mbappe struggled to find his footing, failing to land a single shot on target. He only managed to win three out of twelve duels against Cubarsi and completed just one out of four attempted dribbles.
For what it is worth, this showdown promises high stakes and fierce competition as PSG strive to defy the odds and secure their coveted victory.
Moreover, it will also be interesting to see how Cubarsi fairs against a tough opponent at home. Will it be the same story? Will Mbappe get the better of Cubarsi this time? Only time will tell.