Has PSG's big spending deceived us?

PSG'S big summer spending had many football fans, including myself, thinking that they would pose a real threat in the Champions League with the big summer signings that they had acquired. PSG spent £214 million, but that was only made up of two players in Neymar and Yuri Berchiche, both costing £198 and £15 million respectively. There were other acquisitions such as the electric Mbappe who arrived on loan and the experienced Dani Alves on a free transfer.

The transfer of Neymar is what made many fans believe PSG would be a real European threat and that Neymar would step out of Messi's shadow and really make the difference in the big matches. However, to win a champions league, or at least get to the latter stages, relying on one player won't get you far. The team as a collective need to perform. There are still players left over from the previous seasons 6-1 embarrassment away at Barcelona, and the midfield lacks enough experience to handle big champions league nights. Thiago Motta is the only fully experienced midfield player, and although Veratti, Rabiot and Lo Celso all offer great technical qualities, they don't bring big game experience. Defencively Dani Alves and Thiago Silva are into their 30's and are arguably slowing down in some respects. However, the left-back and goal-keeping position is what causes concern. Yuri isn't a top class left back and Areola isn't a top class keeper. Going forward PSG have an abundance of top quality players, but at times lack service from their midfield and full-backs.

The main problem I find for PSG is the manager Unai Emery. Although especially successful with Seville, winning three consecutive Europa Leagues, the Champions League is a different animal. Until either Emery leaves, or he brings in players to not just the attack, I feel PSG will always come up short in Europe's most sought-after competition.