‘He doesn’t know how to defend’ – Samir Nasri critical of PSG player

Paris Saint-Germain endured a tough night at the Emirates Stadium as they succumbed to a 2-0 defeat in matchday two of the UEFA Champions League. 

Blunt in attack, PSG were undone by two first-half goals with Gianluigi Donnarumma at fault – at least in part – for both goals, the first coming from the head of Kai Havertz and the second from a Bukayo Saka free-kick. However, whilst Italy international Donnarumma has come in for intense criticism for his display between the sticks, he isn’t the only PSG player to have their quality questioned. 

Speaking on Canal Plus, former France and Arsenal midfielder Samir Nasri was critical of Nuno Mendes (22). The Portugal international has had a difficult year with injuries, however, he has featured more regularly since the start of the current campaign (five appearances in all competitions, two assists). 

Mendes is often praised for his work going forward, but against Arsenal, he often found himself as part of a back-three in possession. For Nasri, this was a tactic that not only limited the PSG player’s attacking potential but also exposed his defensive weaknesses. 

“I’m going to be blunt – he doesn’t know how to defend,” said Nasri. “He knows how to attack and is dangerous but I don’t understand why he is always finding himself being the third central defender.” 

GFFN | Luke Entwistle