“An uneven team”—Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Neymar’s defensive weaknesses could hurt PSG in UCL, says ex-midfielder

Jean-Michel Larque, a former PSG midfielder, has attacked Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Neymar Jr. for their poor defence. The French sports journalist says the trio’s shortcomings are threatening his former club’s UEFA Champions League campaign.

Larque told PSG Talk:

“[Sergio] Ramos’ performance crystallises criticism, but I wouldn’t want to pin all the ills, all the obligations of an uneven squad on a single player. Tactically, a squad with three non-defenders is lopsided. I think the Parisian leaders are too concentrated on the names in front, making a defence harder. We occasionally take a satisfying player behind.”
Former PSG midfielder:

“Yes, but Marquinhos are different now. […] You only win a huge competition with a competent defence and a player who can make the difference. However, however, from Donnarumma to Ramos, passing occasionally by Marquinhos, it aches my heart to state that PSG does not have a defence that gives hope of a strong Champions League performance. I hope I’m wrong.”
Under Christophe Galtier, Messi, Neymar, and Mbappe have established a lethal attacking combination at the Parc des Princes this season. Neymar has 11 goals and ten assists, whereas Messi has eight and ten.

Mbappe leads Ligue 1 with 13 goals.

Christophe Galtier on if Messi, Neymar, and Mbappe will play vs PSG.

Paris faces Pays de Cassel in the Coupe de France Round of 32 on 23 January. Since November’s 5-0 triumph over AJ Auxerre, Messi, Neymar, and Mbappe have not played together.

Galtier gave a vague answer when asked if Messi, Neymar, and Mbappe would start the upcoming match. via PSG Talk:

The French Cup’s best team will play on Monday. Because we want rhythm, intensity, and automatisms, there is no reason to produce turnovers during this light season. Even foolish. So we will have a very competitive and near to championship-level team.”