Ibrahim Mbaye’s rapid rise has prompted Paris St-Germain manager Luis Enrique to underline both his satisfaction and his demands, as the teenage Senegal international continues to be deployed across multiple roles at the club.
The 18-year-old impressed on the continental stage during his first Africa Cup of Nations, where he made a notable impact for Senegal in Morocco.
Used primarily on the right wing, Mbaye contributed two assists and scored once, standing out with his energy and effectiveness whenever he was introduced, particularly during the group phase of the tournament.
Those performances, however, have not translated into a single, defined role at PSG. Since returning to club duty, Mbaye has been asked to operate in different areas of the pitch, reflecting the coaching staff’s view of him as a versatile option rather than a specialist in one position. That approach has led Luis Enrique to publicly address the teenager’s profile and potential.
Speaking at a press conference on Saturday, the PSG head coach made clear that adaptability is one of Mbaye’s key strengths, while also stressing that opportunity comes with expectation.
“The youngsters are very happy to have the opportunity to work with a coach and staff like ours. We give them confidence and the opportunity to play, not just for a minute or a match, but for many matches.
They know that we are very demanding of them. I ask much more of them. If you have confidence, you have to give more. That’s what I look for in the player. Mbaye can play anywhere.
He can play on the wings or in the center. He can even play in midfield. That’s what I like. I’m happy in that sense, but I would like more,” he said.
The comments highlight the balance PSG are seeking with their young talents: providing exposure at the highest level while insisting on continuous progression.
For Mbaye, who is still adjusting to the demands of elite European football, the absence of a fixed position is seen internally as part of his development rather than a setback.
While his most eye-catching displays have come from wide areas with the national team, PSG view his tactical flexibility as an asset that could serve the squad across competitions.
Luis Enrique’s remarks suggest that Mbaye’s future role will depend not only on his versatility, but on his ability to consistently meet the standards required at the club.
As the season continues, the focus will remain on how the young forward responds to those expectations, with his performances closely monitored by both club and country.
