Ensemble PSG Podcast

After years of attracting superstar talents to the French capital, Paris Saint-Germain has reversed its strategy and is preparing to head in a new direction with an unquestioned leader on the pitch.

On this episode of PSG Talking, I'm joined by Ten and Lee Davey to discuss the shocking news that Kylian Mbappé was reinstated into the squad, Neymar Jr. is reportedly on his way out of the squad, and additional transfer business the club could complete before the close of the transfer window.

Up first, it's the newcomer Ten who shares how he became a PSG supporter before delivering his thoughts on Neymar reportedly agreeing to a transfer to Al-Hilal of the Saudi Pro League. I ask whether he believes Neymar will go down as a club legend and how PSG can go about replacing what he provided on the pitch.

Next, Lee Davey of talkSPORT and Ligue1.com joins the show. I get his thoughts on Mbappé returning to the PSG squad at the same time Neymar is being pushed out. I also ask how PSG can get leverage in the next round of contract negotiations if Mbappé is open to a new deal with the reigning French champions. Lee also shares his expectations for PSG this season and additional signings the club could make.

As always, thank you for listening, and be sure to subscribe and rate the show wherever you download your podcasts. We’re also on Substack! Subscribe for free today to access premium PSG content.

Paris Saint-Germain continued its summer rebuild with another big signing, and there are several more on the horizon. However, with just days until the start of the Ligue 1 season, it's the players who could be leaving who will decide the fate of the 2023-24 campaign.

On this episode of PSG Talking, I'm joined by Ethan of PSG Fan Club Boise to discuss the attacking players available to the new manager, Luis Enrique. We also discuss the future of Kylian Mbappé and Neymar Jr. at the club, Lionel Messi's success in Major League Soccer, and new investors at Paris Saint-Germain.

Up first, we discuss PSG's attack, which added Gonçalo Ramos, who will likely be the first-choice striker. Is a front three of Ramos, Ousmane Dembélé, and Marco Asensio enough to win Ligue 1 and compete in the UEFA Champions League?

Next, we discuss the roadblock preventing Mbappé from leaving for Real Madrid. Should PSG negotiate with the Spanish club, or, could the Frenchman be enticed to stay at PSG considering the successful transfer window?

Mbappé may stay if Neymar is moved on, which could be a possibility, according to reports this week. The Brazil international is rumored to be heading to FC Barcelona, the Saudi Pro League, and Major League Soccer. Is a move possible, and, would Mbappé prefer to be the lone star in the French capital?

We then turn our attention to Messi, who is tearing up MLS despite what Ethan and I had predicted previously. Can the former PSG man continue his impressive run of seven goals in four appearances, or will he hit a wall at some point?

We conclude the show with news that an American private equity company is planning on investing in PSG and that they have plans and new ideas for the club. We brainstorm possible American sports features that could make their way to the Parc des Princes.

As always, thank you for listening, and be sure to subscribe and rate the show wherever you download your podcasts. We’re also on Substack! Subscribe for free today to access premium PSG content.

August will be a pivotal month for Paris Saint-Germain, with the Ligue 1 season kicking off and several transfer files nearing completion. But as we've learned over the years, always expect the unexpected when it comes to PSG.

On this episode of PSG Talking, I'm joined by Ethan from PSG Fan Club Boise to discuss the breaking news about Ousmane Dembélé, the latest on Kylian Mbappé, and the report that Marco Verratti is close to joining Al-Hilal.

Up first, we share our initial reaction to the news that Dembélé has agreed to join PSG from FC Barcelona. We debate whether this is a smart signing considering his injury history. We reflect on the coincidence that PSG is signing a player that Barcelona signed to replace Neymar Jr. when PSG paid his buyout clause as well. Lastly, we question whether Dembélé's arrival could lead to a contract extension with Mbappé.

Next, we discuss the upcoming week in terms of the Mbappé transfer situation. The PSG superstar is due a loyalty bonus, and come Tuesday at midnight, Mbappé must decide whether he wants to trigger the third year in his current contract or not. We debate whether PSG should set a deadline for his decision and transfer offers and if Real Madrid will really spend up to €230 million to sign him this summer.

We stick with transfers and dive into the Verratti report that indicated that he agreed to terms with Al-Hilal, but PSG are unwilling to sell due to a lowball offer from the Saudi club. If the report is accurate, should PSG want a player in the team that is reportedly willing to give up top-class European football in his prime?

We conclude with a discussion about PSG's transfer window as a whole and what business still needs to be done, and a quick preview of PSG's match on Tuesday against Inter Milan.

As always, thank you for listening, and be sure to subscribe and rate the show wherever you download your podcasts. We’re also on Substack! Subscribe for free today to access premium PSG content.

Paris Saint-Germain are two matches into their preseason schedule ahead of the 2023-24 season, but performances on the pitch have taken a backseat to the ongoing Kylian Mbappé saga.

On this episode of PSG Talking, we recap the scoreless draw against Al-Nassr in Japan before turning our attention to the latest on Mbappé and transfer rumors.

Up first, I go on my opening rant about Mbappé. As things stand, PSG believes Mbappé has already agreed to join Real Madrid next summer on a free transfer. So the club is now entertaining offers for the Frenchman, and they reportedly have a massive one on the table. Al-Hilal has reportedly submitted a bid of €300 million for Mbappé along with wages in the €700 million range. Both would smash current records.

The atmosphere between Mbappé and PSG is contentious, to say the least, but ultimately, it's up to Mbappé whether he stays in the French capital or leaves. If he stays, Mbappé will likely be benched for the season or play very little. If he leaves, for either Al-Hilal, Real Madrid, or another club, PSG would benefit by way of a transfer fee and getting rid of a massive distraction in the dressing room. We'll see how this one plays out.

The show continues with an interview with PSG Hub. We begin with a discussion about PSG's preseason match against Al-Nassr. PSG Hub shares how he saw the match and which players stood out, including Cher Ndour, Achraf Hakimi, and Noha Lemina.

We then turn our attention back to Mbappé, and PSG Hub shares his thoughts on the latest developments regarding the Parisian superstar. I asked him about the legalities of benching Mbappé for a season and whether PSG could recall Xavi Simons from loan at RB Leipzig should Mbappé leave.

PSG Hub also shares the latest on Harry Kane. At times, this transfer felt like it wouldn't happen with FC Bayern Munich leading the way for his signature, but reports continue to leak out highlighting PSG's interest. Given PSG's relationship with Tottenham Hotspur, a transfer can't be ruled out, and Kane would only be the fourth Englishman to suit up for PSG.

We conclude the show with PSG Hub sharing his favorite signing of the summer and outlining other transfers the club needs to secure before the window closes.

As always, thank you for listening, and be sure to subscribe and rate the show wherever you download your podcasts. We’re also on Substack! Subscribe for free today to access premium PSG content.

Summer is in full swing, and Paris Saint-Germain's transfer business is heating up. Several rumored players have officially signed with the club, but several holes still remain in the squad, and there's still the looming situation with Kylian Mbappé that has yet to be resolved.

On this episode of PSG Talking, Ed is joined by the man behind the PSG Report Twitter account and Ethan from PSG Fan Club Boise to discuss PSG's latest transfer business and who might be signed to play the striker role. We also discuss comments made by the club's former sporting director about Mbappé, and the upcoming preseason tour.

First, Ed rants about PSG's new retail store in Las Vegas, Nevada. It's the third store PSG has opened in the United States, but is it creating more plastic fans and getting the badge into the hands of people who care more about fashion than the makeup of the midfield? Instead, Ed wishes the team would work on making PSG matches more accessible in the U.S. and, if the country is a priority, then come and visit for a preseason tour, which they haven't done since 2017.

Next, PSG Report joins the show to grade PSG's transfer business so far and name the signing he is really excited about and one that may end up being a disappointment. We also discuss players PSG should continue to track and try and sign, such as Bernardo Silva and Randal Kolo Muani, and I get his thoughts on the Mbappé saga. The interview concludes with potential surprise departures from the club.

Following PSG Report is Ethan, who reacts to Leonardo's comments about how PSG must let Mbappé go and that several clubs have won the UEFA Champions League without him over the past six seasons. We also discuss strategies PSG could use during these tense negotiations with PSG and share what we're looking forward to most during PSG's preseason tour.

As always, thank you for listening, and be sure to subscribe and rate the show wherever you download your podcasts. We’re also on Substack! Subscribe for free today to access premium PSG content.

As the calendar flips to July, Paris Saint-Germain has yet to hire a new manager or announce a major signing. With so much work to be done, should supporters start to worry?

On this episode of PSG Talking, Ed is joined by Drew from Dallas and Ethan from PSG Fan Club Boise to discuss PSG's overall transfer strategy, the latest on Kylian Mbappé, and what PSG's starting lineup could look like next season.

Up first, Ed shares his thoughts on PSG's transfer business so far, which includes signing the injured Lucas Hernández from FC Bayern Munich for €45 million. Should PSG instead target players like Harry Kane, who are hungry for trophies, aren't often injured, and can provide goals from day one? The monologue concludes with Ed sharing why PSG fans should keep an eye on the Xavi Simons situation.

Next, Ed welcomes Drew from Dallas to the show to discuss the transfer window in depth. Drew first shares how he became a PSG supporter before diving into the rumored signings of Hernández, Marco Asensio, Milan Škriniar, Manuel Ugarte, and others. Luis Enrique is likely to be PSG's next manager, and Drew shares his thoughts on whether he was the best option for the club.

Following Drew is Ethan from PSG Fan Club Boise to break down what PSG's starting lineup could look like next season. From Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal to Mbappé potentially leading the attack to Neymar Jr. playing the number 10 role, Ethan gives his ideal formation, lineup, and backups at every position. He also asked him which young player in the ranks at PSG could work his way into being a consistent starter.

As always, thank you for listening, and be sure to subscribe and rate the show wherever you download your podcasts. We’re also on Substack! Subscribe for free today to access premium PSG content.

When it comes to Kylian Mbappé, it's always best to call in an expert to help read between the lines of what he's really saying and what his true intentions are.

On this episode of PSG Talking, I'm joined by Jonathan Johnson, who covers all this soccer and Paris Saint-Germain for CBS Sports Golazo. He also has a weekly column on PSG Talk Extra Time, which you can subscribe to for free here.

I brought JJ in because this week has been tumultuous, to say the least, for PSG supporters. On the heels of Lionel Messi leaving to join Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, Mbappé reportedly sent a letter to inform the club he does not intend to opt into the third year of his contract. Without that extension or a new contract, Mbappé could leave on a free transfer after next season.

I asked Johnson about the timing of the story and the role the media played in publicizing the letter. I also asked him about Mbappé's tweet where he called a report about him wanting to join Real Madrid a lie. We discuss what Mbappé's true intentions could be and whether he's even happy at PSG with everything else that has been going on at the club.

We know Mbappé has always been fond of Real Madrid, but could another club swoop in and tempt PSG with a lofty transfer figure? If Los Blancos truly is the only option, can they even afford the transfer fee to sign Mbappé from PSG?

Finally, Johnson gives his verdict on whether Mbappé will be at PSG next season and how the 2024 Olympics could play a role. I also ask him about the current status of PSG's neverending managerial search.

As always, thank you for listening, and be sure to subscribe and rate the show wherever you download your podcasts. We’re also on Substack! Subscribe for free today to access premium PSG content.

Just when you thought Paris Saint-Germain was in for a relatively drama-free summer transfer window, the football gods deliver an unexpected news bomb that could forever change the club.

On this episode of PSG Talking, I'm joined by Ethan from PSG Fan Club Boise and long-time contributor James to discuss the breaking news that Kylian Mbappé reportedly has sent a letter to the club and several media outlets informing them that he does not intend to opt into the additional year in his current contract. Combined with reports that PSG does not want to let Mbappé leave for free, the 24-year-old is effectively on the market.

After sharing our initial reaction to the breaking news, we dive into how Mbappé informed the club of his intentions. Why did he wait until he was on international duty to send the letter? Did PSG leak the news, or did the media receive the letter first and break the story? Is Mbappé doing PSG a favor by letting his intentions known early in the transfer window?

Next, we discuss potential destinations for Mbappé. It's almost certain that Real Madrid will submit a bid for the Frenchman, but what other clubs could submit an offer? Manchester City could pair Mbappé with Erling Haaland to create a super team better than the one that one the treble this season. Arsenal is a young, up-and-coming team with Mbappé's friend, William Saliba, in the lineup and could be an attractive destination as well. Or, could Mbappé join Manchester United and set up multiple mouthwatering fixtures every season against Haaland and City?

We wrap up the show by debating whether Mbappé will make a public statement and predicting how we think the latest Mbappé saga will play out.

As always, thank you for listening, and be sure to subscribe and rate the show wherever you download your podcasts. We’re also on Substack! Subscribe for free today to access premium PSG content.

Paris Saint-Germain's season ended with a Ligue 1 title celebration, but for supporters, the pyrotechnics couldn't be put out fast enough as many look forward to a much-needed summer rebuild under new leadership.

On this episode of PSG Talking, I’m joined by Ethan from PSG Fan Club Boise to discuss one of the oddest trophy celebrations in recent memory, which included a 3-2 loss to Clermont Foot 63. We also highlight Luis Campos' transfer strategy and react to the latest news about where Lionel Messi will play next and who might take over as head coach.

We begin by highlighting PSG's last match of the season. Before kickoff, it was announced that Sergio Ramos wouldn't be returning to the club, and outgoing manager Christophe Galtier was the first to announce that the match would be Messi's last in a PSG shirt. Following the loss to Clermont, PSG hoisted the trophy, but not before the Ultras booed Messi and Neymar Jr.

Next, we react to the news that Julian Nagelsmann is the frontrunner for the PSG job, with Galtier reportedly being let go. Not only is the former FC Bayern Munich man interested in the PSG job, but he could also bring Thierry Henry as an assistant. How will the French football legend impact PSG's transfer plans?

The show continues with a discussion about Marco Asensio and Manuel Ugarte, who have reportedly signed with PSG. We rate both transfers and comment on Chelsea FC's continued shenanigans regarding transfers involving Les Parisiens. We also discuss the potential arrival of Xavi Simons, Marcus Thuram, Bernardo Silva, and others.

During the podcast, news broke that Messi is reportedly considering going to FC Barcelona or Inter Miami of Major League Soccer. We react to the details of the story, including Messi taking a percentage of Apple's broadcast deal with MLS.

On the second half of the show, we answer questions sent in via Twitter and Discord.

As always, thank you for listening, and be sure to subscribe and rate the show wherever you download your podcasts. We’re also on Substack! Subscribe for free today to access premium PSG content.

Paris Saint-Germain officially became the most successful club in France by winning its 11th Ligue 1 title. Unfortunately, not everyone thought that occasion was important enough to be in attendance.

On this episode of PSG Talking, I'm joined by Ethan from PSG Fan Club Boise to discuss PSG's 1-1 draw over RC Strasbourg Alsace at the Stade de la Meinau Strasbourg that led to them being crowned champions of France. We also discuss the potential managers to replace Christophe Galtier and the latest transfer rumors.

Up first, Ethan and I share why a Ligue 1 title is still something worth celebrating even if the season as a whole has been disappointing for PSG supporters.

We then dive into the draw against Strasbourg, which once again saw a former PSG player score against his own club. We question whether El Chadaille Bitshiabu is worth keeping in the squad next season or loaning out for more experience. We also come to the conclusion that signing a quality backup goalkeeper to keep pressure on Gianluigi Donnarumma would be a good thing.

In the celebration of the Ligue 1 title, one player who was absent was Neymar Jr. While Presnel Kimpembe, Nuno Mendes, Achraf Hakimi, Fabian Ruiz, and Nordi Mukiele all made the trip despite not being in the squad, while Neymar could only post an Instagram Story of him watching the game in comfort elsewhere. We question Neymar's love for the club and plead with clubs to make a bid for the Brazil international this summer.

Neymar's best friend in the club, Lionel Messi, scored against Strasbourg and became the top scorer in the history of the five major European championships with 496 goals. We outline how PSG can replace Messi's output this season as he is expected to depart at the end of the season.

We wrap up the show by talking about the coaching carousel and the latest transfer rumors.

As always, thank you for listening, and be sure to subscribe and rate the show wherever you download your podcasts. We’re also on Substack! Subscribe for free today to access premium PSG content.