What is PSG's new kick-off tactic?

The UCL winners are using a new tactic right after the kick-off to put pressure on the opponents.

Paris Saint-Germain, under Luis Enrique, have come up with a new tactic in the 2024/25 season, and that gets into play right through kick-off. If they are in charge of the kick-off, they kick the ball long to the opposition half for a corner or throw-in. Vitinha is generally in charge of taking the kick-off, and he does not hesitate to kick the ball deep into the opposition half.

What is the tactic all about?

The idea comes from watching Lyon, but PSG have taken it to another level. By doing so, they manage to create discomfort for their opponents from minute one. This manoeuvre fits perfectly with their plan of high pressing.

They force the opponent to restart the game with a side kick, where the movements are forced and the angles are limited. It is a well-thought-out trap. As soon as their opponents put the ball into play, PSG jump into a block, close the lines and trap the opposing attackers against the flank.

It’s a clear script: steal quickly and attack immediately. The system is complemented by their usual attacking formation, a 4-3-3 that prioritises fluidity on the ball. However, this initial aggressiveness breaks up any attempt at a clean start by the opposition.

With youngsters like João Neves and Désiré Doué, physical deployment is key. The energy of these players translates into goal-scoring opportunities early in the game. There are plenty of examples.

What does the data say?

They thrashed Inter Milan 5-0 in the UEFA Champions League final, and they swept aside Atlético Madrid 4-0 in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025.

The data backs up the idea. PSG scored inside the first six minutes against Inter Miami and were 3-0 up against Real Madrid before the first half-hour was up. It is no fluke.

The goal is clear, and that is to impose a high tempo, suffocate and leave no room for reaction. Gone are the days when everything depended on a Neymar or a Messi. Now everyone runs, everyone steals, everyone presses.

This collective mentality strengthens their identity and makes them fearsome in France and Europe. Achraf Hakimi and Vitinha synchronise every press, proving that this is not an isolated trick but part of a group mentality that Luis Enrique has instilled from the dressing room. The result is 48 wins in a historic season and their first Champions League as proof that this aggressive strategy pays off.

Will it still work next season?

We think this trick can still work next season. However, it won’t be so easy to always surprise. Rivals are already taking note.

Some teams will work on quicker starts or will use long throwers to jump the pressure. Still, as long as PSG maintain intensity and proper team pressing, the plan will remain a dangerous weapon. The most important thing is that the squad buys into the idea and stays fresh. If that fails, this initial trick may remain anecdotal.

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