Paris Saint-Germain’s European standing has fundamentally shifted since winning the Champions League, with Tiémoué Bakayoko confirming that opponents no longer view the Parisian club as a pushover, L’Équipe reported. This new perception, Bakayoko stated, is rooted in a long-held lack of respect that has been erased by PSG’s dominant performances on the continent.

From ‘Just Paris’ to European Fear

Bakayoko, who played for AS Monaco and Chelsea, detailed this change in perspective in an interview with L’Équipe. He explained that for years, European clubs felt they could defeat PSG more easily than established giants like Barcelona, Bayern Munich, or Real Madrid. “During a long time, the clubs thought they could win against Paris more easily than against Barcelona, Bayern or Real because it lacked history around the club,” he said.

This mindset, Bakayoko added, was based on a dismissive attitude. “There was a general lack of respect. Clubs would arrive on the field telling themselves it was ‘just’ Paris,” the former French international remarked. “That has changed completely. When you take a beating, fear sets in afterwards.”

On-Field Dominance Fuels New Reputation

The foundation of this new reputation is PSG’s formidable Champions League campaign under Luis Enrique. The team’s recent 6-0 victory over Villarreal in Spain marked their fourth victory in as many Champions League matches, a run that has showcased their overwhelming offensive prowess.

Across these four matches, PSG has scored 20 goals, averaging five per game. This redoubtable efficiency was on full display against Villarreal and in previous victories. Before the match in Spain, the champions d’Europe had already secured dominant wins against Slovan Bratislava (6-1), Manchester City (4-2), and FC Barcelona (4-2). These results lend significant weight to Bakayoko’s analysis that the mindset of PSG’s opponents has been altered.

A Shift from Domestic Dominance to European Intimidation

PSG’s transformation reflects a broader evolution for the club. They have long been the dominant force in Ligue 1, where they have won five consecutive titles. However, this domestic supremacy was not always matched by a similar level of fear or respect from opponents in European competitions.

The Champions League title served as the ultimate credential, changing how the club is perceived. Now, according to Bakayoko, the same level of intimidation that PSG instills in French rivals extends beyond the nation’s borders. The club’s ability to consistently defeat top-tier opponents with such a high margin of victory has established them as an intimidating force across Europe.

What’s Next for PSG in Europe

Paris Saint-Germain will look to continue its form in the Champions League. Maintaining this form will be crucial as they progress toward the knockout rounds, where the scrutiny and intensity will increase.

Bakayoko Discusses PSG Reputation Change

What did Tiémoué Bakayoko say about PSG’s reputation?

Tiémoué Bakayoko told L’Équipe that opponents used to underestimate Paris, believing it was easier to beat PSG than clubs like Barcelona or Bayern. He stated that this perception has changed completely due to the team’s dominant performances.

How has PSG performed in the Champions League this season?

PSG has won four of its Champions League matches, defeating Slovan Bratislava (6-1), Manchester City (4-2), FC Barcelona (4-2), and most recently Villarreal (6-0). They have scored 20 goals in these four games.

When is PSG’s next Champions League match?

The specific date, time, and opponent for PSG’s next match will be finalized by the official tournament schedule.