3 players Zidane must sign if he takes over as PSG manager
Paris St Germain are undergoing major changes at the management level and are working to bring in the very best. They recently roped in Luis Campos – well known for his work in identifying world-class footballers – as their football director.
But the Ligue 1 giants aren’t done. Mauricio Pochettino is expected to be sacked very soon and former Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane is a major contender to become PSG’s new manager (as per Goal).
The prospect of working with some of the world’s best footballers – Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi and Neymar – might entice Zidane to take the job. But he would want to request additional signings to strengthen the side and make them strong enough to properly compete for the Champions League.
So here’s a look at three players Zidane might demand be signed if he becomes the next PSG manager.
Milan Skriniar to improve the backline for Zidane
PSG still have work to do in strengthening its backline to become strong enough to go all the way through the Champions League knockout stages. Presnel Kimpembe is error prone and Sergio Ramos suffered an injury-plagued first season in Paris.
Zidane could look for a new centre-back to form an indomitable partnership with Marquinhos. Inter Milan defender Milan Skriniar is an ideal option to strengthen the backline. PSG are eager to sign him and have already made an offer (as per Foot Mercato), but was told he’d cost something close to €70m-€80m.
Skriniar helped Inter keep 12 clean sheets in 35 Serie A games last season. He also starred in Inter’s win over Liverpool at Anfield in the Champions League, denying Jurgen Klopp’s side any goals at home.
The 27-year-old centre-back is nearing his peak and has evolved into a sturdy leader at the back. WhoScored states his strengths as maintaining concentration defensively, and passing, traits that would make him an ideal partner to the proactive Marquinhos.
He might be expensive, but Skriniar’s an ideal defender for Zidane’s style and could significantly improve PSG’s defensive record next season.
Christopher Nkunku: Zidane’s star summer signing?
Zidane is going to inherit an extremely luxurious frontline if he takes over at PSG. But he will probably long for more young blood up front. If the Frenchman really wants to spark the Ligue 1 giant’s attack next season, an ideal option would be the in-demand Christopher Nkunku.
The RB Leipzig forward is the talk of the town after winning the Bundesliga Player of the Season award, ahead of Erling Haaland and Robert Lewandowski. Nkunku had 49 goal contributions (35 goals and 14 assists) and was one of the most prolific players in Europe.
He’s the entire package, boasting strong qualities in creating chances, set-piece delivery, long-range shooting, dribbling and finishing (via WhoScored).
Leipzig would want upwards of €75m (via 90min) for Nkunku, but he has all the qualities to help take the PSG attacking force to the next level under someone like Zidane.
Wilfred Ndidi as Zizou’s ideal defensive midfielder
During his time at Real Madrid, Zidane always depended on a strong midfield line with a heroic defensive midfielder to shield the backline from trouble. PSG doesn’t seem to have that currently. Idrissa Gueye isn’t dependable and Danilo Perreira isn’t good enough in the big occasions.
A possible smart signing to fill that defensive midfield area would be Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi. The Nigerian midfielder is a hard-working, highly efficient figure who thrives on cutting down opposition attacks, relying on clattering tackles and making things easier for his defenders.
Despite making only 19 Premier League appearances last season, Ndidi still averaged more than three tackles, three clearances, two interceptions, seven duels won and eight recoveries per game for Leicester (via Premierleague.com).
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Ndidi is clutch with his challenges and can help his side dominate the midfield battle by winning key battles. The 25-year-old might be valued at €60m (via Transfermarkt) but Zidane can secure a real warrior that can fortify his PSG midfield.