Luis Enrique compares Lucas Beraldo to Sergio Busquets after standout Angers performance
Paris Saint-Germain head coach Luis Enrique has drawn a high-profile comparison between young defender Lucas Beraldo and Barcelona legend Sergio Busquets following the Brazilian’s impressive display in PSG’s 3-0 victory over Angers in Ligue 1.
The comments came after Beraldo delivered what Enrique described as an “XXL performance” in his new role as a defensive midfielder, a position the coach has been experimenting with as part of tactical adjustments ahead of PSG’s Champions League clash with Bayern Munich.
“For me, he’s the man of the match,” Enrique told RMC Sport following the Angers game. “Lucas Beraldo was brilliant against Angers. His performance was XXL.”
The PSG boss went further in his assessment, suggesting the 20-year-old has the qualities to become PSG’s future defensive anchor, drawing a direct parallel to one of football’s most renowned holding midfielders.
“He reminds me of Sergio Busquets,” Enrique said. “Not in the sense that he’s already at that level, but in terms of his profile, his intelligence, and how he reads the game. He has that same ability to be the quiet conductor in midfield, breaking up play and starting attacks with simple, effective passes.”
Beraldo, who joined PSG from São Paulo in January 2023, has primarily been used as a center-back during his time in Paris. However, Enrique has begun deploying him in a deeper midfield role, utilizing his composure on the ball and positional awareness to shield the defense.
The tactical shift comes as PSG prepares for their crucial Champions League last-16 tie against Bayern Munich, with the first leg scheduled for March 4, 2024, at the Parc des Princes. Enrique has been experimenting with various formations and personnel combinations to find the right balance ahead of the high-stakes European encounter.
In the Angers match, Beraldo completed 89 passes with a 91% accuracy rate, made three tackles, and intercepted two passes according to match statistics provided by Ligue 1 official sources. His ability to recycle possession and maintain PSG’s defensive shape was particularly notable in the first half when Angers pressed high.
The young Brazilian’s development has been closely monitored by the PSG coaching staff since his arrival. Foot Mercato reported earlier in February that Beraldo has shown “irrésistible montée en puissance” (irresistible rise in power) in training sessions, earning increased trust from the coaching staff.
Eurosport quoted a PSG source describing Beraldo as “parfait” (perfect) in his new role, highlighting his adaptability and willingness to learn different positions to help the team. “Il est parfait : Beraldo, l’improbable juste milieu” was the headline used, emphasizing how the youngster has exceeded expectations in a position not originally considered his natural fit.
The comparison to Busquets carries significant weight in football circles. The Spanish international, who spent 15 seasons at Barcelona before joining Inter Miami in 2023, is widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive midfielders of all time, known for his exceptional positional sense, passing range, and ability to dictate tempo without needing to be flashy.
For PSG, developing a homegrown-style defensive midfielder has been a priority amid ongoing squad reconstruction. While Beraldo is not a product of the PSG academy, his early integration into the first team and willingness to adapt to different roles aligns with the club’s strategy of building a cohesive, tactically flexible squad capable of competing on multiple fronts.
The Angers victory extended PSG’s lead at the top of Ligue 1 to six points over second-place Lens, giving Enrique some breathing room to continue experimenting with his lineup, and tactics. The result marked PSG’s sixth consecutive league win, underscoring their domestic dominance even as they prepare for the Bayern challenge.
Looking ahead, Enrique indicated that Beraldo’s role in the midfield could see further development depending on the opponent and match circumstances. The coach emphasized flexibility as a key component of his tactical philosophy, particularly in high-pressure games where adapting mid-match can be crucial.
“We demand players who can understand different roles,” Enrique explained. “Lucas has shown he can do that. Against Angers, we needed someone to sit in front of the defense, keep things tidy, and start attacks. He did that exceptionally well. Against Bayern, we might need something different, but having that option is valuable.”
PSG’s next match is the first leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie against Bayern Munich on March 4, 2024, at the Parc des Princes in Paris. The return leg will take place on March 12, 2024, at the Allianz Arena in Munich.
As PSG continues its pursuit of domestic and European success, the development of players like Beraldo into versatile, intelligent contributors could prove crucial. Whether he ultimately evolves into a long-term solution at defensive midfield remains to be seen, but Enrique’s early endorsement suggests the young Brazilian has made a strong impression.
The comparison to Busquets, while aspirational, highlights the qualities PSG values in midfield: intelligence, positional discipline, and the ability to develop the team function smoothly without necessarily seeking the spotlight. For a club aiming to reclaim Champions League glory, finding players who embody those traits could be as important as acquiring global superstars.
PSG will look to build on their domestic momentum as they prepare for one of the season’s biggest challenges. With Beraldo showing promise in a new role, Enrique may have discovered a valuable tactical variable as the campaign enters its most decisive phase.
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