Ugly first half for PSG against Nice, but they came out strong in the second to secure the win to stay atop Ligue 1. A few observations from the match:
- Pastore truly is playing like one the best players in the world. It's taken him awhile to come around but now that he has he's pure class. In form, there's not many attacking players more pleasing to watch.
- It's good to have Lucas Moura back. Neither his form or fitness are quite there yet, but even still he's a threat every time he receives the ball at his feet due to his passing, penetration, and vision. Set Pastore up for his first goal but was relatively quiet beyond that.
- Serge Aurier is quite a bit better than VDW, both in offensive and defensive duties. He's last two performances have reminded me why he earned the title of best RB of Ligue 1 last season.
- I've been on this wagon for a while now, but PSG needs to sign Jordan Amavi before someone else does(Lyon?). He gives you a lot of what Maxwell does in regard to technical skill and forward movement, but at 21 years old is a much stronger tackler/defensive player. Thought he stood out today for Nice, matched up well against Lucas and Aurier.
- Rabiot is coming along nicely. The more his confidence grows the more commanding he becomes. I've noted fewer and fewer mistakes from his as the season has progressed.
- Cavani and Lavezzi need to be shipped out and replaced by Felipe Anderson or Memphis Depay. They're not up to PSG's standard of technical skill imo, and neither are adequately competent at the skill they were brought in for: finishing.
- I don't like the 4-3-3 for PSG. I understand Blanc is trying to mimic Barca and RM, but I think Paris would be better served with a formation more focused on attacking from the center as it's players are more comfortable from the inside than out. I'm curious if Blanc stays this summer or if Nasser goes after someone like Klopp?
