Thierry Henry Claims PSG Are More Stable Without Kylian Mbappe, But Missing Magic

Former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry believes Paris Saint-Germain are a more balanced team without Kylian Mbappe but admits they have lost some of their “magic” following the Frenchman’s departure.

PSG’s 1-1 draw against PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League highlighted their struggles to convert dominating possession into victories.

Despite having 26 shots on goal, including 18 in the second half, they were unable to secure a win, leaving them with work to do to qualify for the Round of 16 automatically.

Henry, speaking on CBS Sports Golazo, praised PSG’s improved stability but acknowledged the void left by Mbappe. “They are a bit more stable, less counters,” he said. “But they still lost Mbappe. It’s very difficult.

“For example, in a game like that, Kylian can turn it into a 2-1 or a winning goal towards the end, a moment of magic. He can turn it around. You lost a bit of magic, but the team looks a bit more sound in terms of balance. But obviously the result is not good enough.”

“You lost a bit of magic, but the team looks a bit more sound in terms of balance.”

Thierry Henry reflects on how Kylian Mbappé's absence has impacted PSG ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/gzzDrq8sdT

— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) October 22, 2024

When asked if Mbappe’s departure means less pressure for Luis Enrique and his players, Henry replied, “No, the same. You decided to get rid of those guys.

“The way it was with the crowd and everything, they decided to go young, and I was calling that when I was in France. But when you go young, you can’t go full young too early. You need to have a couple of guys that can be around.

“Marquinhos stayed, Hakimi is passing the veteran status. You need to have guys that can help those guys to be better also. It doesn’t mean that because Kylian Mbappe left it is easier.”

PSG must now prepare for a crucial Ligue 1 match against Marseille on Sunday, followed by a Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid on November 6.