Ugarte Party at the Parc

<p>After two disappointing results to open the Ligue 1 season, Paris Saint-Germain welcomed RC Lens to the Parc des Princes on Saturday in their most difficult test yet. After the final whistle, fans were beaming with pride due to both the result, and style of play showcased.</p><p>On this episode of <em>PSG Talking</em>, I'm joined by <a href="https://twitter.com/psg_boise" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ethan from PSG Fan Club Boise</a> to break down <a href="https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/asensio-mbappe-target-psg-beat-lens-3-1-2023-08-26/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">PSG's 3-1 win over RC Lens</a>, a club that surprised last season and qualified for this season's UEFA Champions League.</p><p>Up first, we discuss Luis Enrique's starting lineup and whether the new manager is getting close to figuring out his ideal starting XI. We also discuss who is most at risk of losing their spot as a starter.</p><p>Next, we discuss Kylian Mbappé, who was cheered by the PSG Ultras before scoring a brace. We talk about his performance overall and his telepathic connection with Ousmane Dembélé.</p><p>As good as PSG's attack was, the midfield was outstanding. Warren Zaïre-Emery continues to show why PSG sees him as the future of the club, Vitinha showed a lot of promise going forward, and Manuel Ugarte was a one-man wrecking ball with nine ground duels won and six successful tackles. We discuss their performance and whether Kang-In Lee can break into the midfield as a starter.</p><p>Unfortunately, there were some rough patches for PSG. Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, and Gianluigi Donnarumma continue to play below their ability, and we question whether Enrique will replace them in the starting lineup as more players return from injury.</p><p>The episode concludes with a discussion about the transfer window and whether PSG are a serious contender for the Champions League title. We also talk about a <a href="https://psgtalk.com/2023/08/psg-supporters-take-shots-at-neymar-messi-finally-rid-of-the-rude/"