Ibrahim Mbaye struggles for PSG minutes after AFCON return

Paris Saint-Germain F.C. winger Ibrahim Mbaye has struggled for minutes since returning from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal national football team, finding opportunities limited despite expectations of increased involvement.

The 18-year-old came back to Paris after a month away with the Lions of Teranga but has not featured in the club’s last three matches.

That run contrasts with earlier assurances that he would see more playing time under head coach Luis Enrique, highlighting a difficult adjustment period following the continental tournament.

Mbaye did receive starts shortly after his return, playing 61 minutes in a 1-0 defeat to AJ Auxerre and 45 minutes in a 2-1 loss against RC Strasbourg Alsace.

He also made a brief three-minute appearance in a Champions League draw with Newcastle United F.C.. Since then, however, he has remained an unused substitute, including during the Champions League victory over AS Monaco FC and Ligue 1 fixtures against Olympique de Marseille and Stade Rennais F.C..

Within the club, Mbaye’s situation has been attributed in part to a lack of consistency, as well as the challenge of readapting to club routines after an extended international spell. Competition for attacking roles is also intense.

Established options such as Ousmane Dembélé, Bradley Barcola, Désiré Doué and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia limit available space in a squad noted for its depth.

Across all competitions this season, Mbaye has made 23 appearances, scoring once and registering one assist.

Those numbers underline both his exposure at senior level and the developmental phase he is navigating. Despite his reduced minutes since the Africa Cup of Nations, he continues to be viewed internally as a player with long-term potential.

His post-tournament spell reflects the balancing act faced by young internationals returning to elite club environments, where competition and form quickly shape selection decisions.

For Mbaye, the immediate challenge remains converting promise into sustained opportunities within a crowded attacking unit.