Stay Positive and Believe Like Ted Lasso

On Tuesday, the business end of Paris Saint-Germain's season begins and there's never been more on the line than now.

On this episode of PSG Talking, I make my triumphant return and I'm joined by long-time contributor, Guillaume Delaporte, to recap PSG's win over Stade Rennais, we also preview the massive Real Madrid match, and react to the controversial comments made by the Ultras.

The show begins with a quick recap of the 1-0 win over Rennes. Kylian Mbappé's stoppage-time winner secured the three points, but how worried should fans be that the last tune-up for Real Madrid was less than inspiring?

Around the 17-minute mark, we transition to the upcoming match against Real Madrid in the Round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League. We address Neymar Jr.'s availability and whether or not PSG should play him in this match or keep him on the bench as he's just getting back from injury.

We also discuss Madrid's most potent attacker, Karim Benzema, and the problems he will cause PSG's defense. In the midfield, PSG will be overpowered there as well. While Marco Verratti will hold his own, will Mauricio Pochettino play Idrissa Gueye to mark Toni Kroos or will he go with a somewhat in-form Danilo Pereira?

Regardless of the lineup and who's available, we both agree that PSG supporters should remain positive and get behind this team. We may question Pochettino's tactics and the constant injuries at times, but now is not the time for negativity. PSG can absolutely beat Real Madrid over the two legs and advance to the next round.

Speaking of supporters voicing their opinion and frustration, a PSG Ultra group (Collectif Ultras Paris) issued a statement that absolutely skewered the club and the executives running it. Their complaints range from the team wearing the recently released fourth kit at home to not getting rid of the players within the squad who offer very little on the pitch but collect hefty wages. Guillaume does his best to explain the criticism and why their timing couldn't be worse.

The show concludes with us highlighting one of the promising youngsters in PSG's ranks and we give our prediction for the Real Madrid match.

As always, thank you for listening, and be sure to subscribe and rate the show wherever you download your podcasts. We’re also on Discord! Come join PSG fans from around the world and have your opinion heard.