PSG coach Enrique explains Ibrahim Mbaye’s no-show after AFCON 2025

Paris Saint-Germain forward Ibrahim Mbaye is facing an increasingly uncertain future after being completely sidelined in recent weeks, with manager Luis Enrique openly signalling that the youngster must raise his standards to break back into the team.

Since returning from the March 2026 international break, Mbaye has not played a single minute for PSG. His situation has now worsened significantly after he was left out of the matchday squad entirely in last weekend’s league clash against Lyon—an omission that underlines his declining standing within the squad hierarchy.

For a player once seen as a promising attacking option, the sudden drop-off has raised questions about his development, readiness, and ability to cope with the intense internal competition at one of Europe’s most demanding clubs.

Speaking on the situation, Luis Enrique did not sugarcoat his assessment, making it clear that selection is strictly merit-based and that Mbaye must deliver more if he wants to earn opportunities.

“Every minute you get to play for PSG has to be special,” the coach said. “I have no regrets about Mbaye, but you have to be ready. He was ready, but I expect much more from all the players. It’s simply competition. You have to make the most of every minute.” He said.

The message from the Spanish manager is consistent with his broader philosophy since taking charge at PSG: no player is guaranteed time on the pitch, and every role must be earned through performance in training and matches.

Mbaye’s current situation reflects the harsh reality of elite squad depth at PSG, where attacking positions are heavily contested and small margins often determine selection. With established stars and in-form forwards ahead of him in the pecking order, opportunities have become increasingly limited.

What makes the situation more pressing is the timing. At a stage of the season where rotation is often expected due to fixture congestion, Mbaye’s absence from both starting line-ups and matchday squads suggests that he is currently outside the manager’s immediate plans.

While Luis Enrique’s comments were not dismissive in tone, they carried a clear challenge: the expectation is not just readiness, but impact. In his system, even substitute appearances are viewed as auditions for larger roles, and underperformance—even in training—can quickly influence selection decisions.

For Mbaye, the path back into contention will require more than patience. It will demand visible improvement in intensity, decision-making, and execution whenever he is given a chance. At PSG, reputation alone is not enough to secure minutes on the pitch.