Serge Aurier Admits He Needs Time to Adapt at PSG
By BBC News Staff
Paris Saint-Germain right-back Serge Aurier has acknowledged the challenges of settling into life at the Ligue 1 champions, after a slow start to his first season in the French capital.
Aurier, who joined PSG from Toulouse this summer, arrived with a reputation as one of the league’s top defenders — even being widely regarded as the best right-back in Ligue 1 last season. However, the 21-year-old Ivorian international has struggled to replicate that form in Paris, where competition and expectations are significantly higher.
Speaking to Canal Supporters, Aurier addressed concerns over his early performances and called for patience. “It’s not easy to arrive at a club where the players are a cut above,” he said. “I’m coming from Toulouse, a team that played well with the ball, but you can feel the difference. I’m taking my time, I’m not worrying. A lot of people are worried about me, but I’ll gradually get back into shape.”
Despite the growing pressure to justify his move, Aurier insists that he feels settled in Paris — a city he calls home. “Paris is my club. I have all my friends and family here,” he said. “When I play, there’s added pressure, but I don’t think it’s a pressure issue. It’s something I manage pretty well. I just need to give myself a little time to get back into it, find my qualities again, and return to my best level.”
With PSG preparing for their highly anticipated clash against AS Monaco, manager Laurent Blanc is expected to favour Dutch international Gregory van der Wiel in the starting lineup. The decision highlights the competition Aurier faces, but also underscores the depth PSG enjoy in key positions.
Aurier’s comments suggest he remains determined to make his mark at the Parc des Princes. For now, though, he appears to accept that earning a regular starting role will take time — and consistency.
