Paris Saint-Germain is encountering an unexpectedly challenging start to its Ligue 1 campaign, currently positioned just above the relegation zone in 13th place with only two points from its first three matches. The two-time defending Champions League winner’s domestic struggles have raised concerns, as the club has failed to secure a win in its opening four fixtures across all competitions, including a recent 2-1 home loss to Monaco.

PSG's start includes two defeats and two draws, with seven goals conceded, a stark contrast to the dominant performances that secured five consecutive league titles and two European crowns over the past seasons. Notably, the team twice came from two goals down to draw matches, including salvaging a last-minute equalizer against Lille on August 28. However, the momentum faltered against Monaco, compounding a run without victory that began with a 1-0 Super Cup defeat to Lens, in which PSG faced a side reduced to ten men in the second half.

Coach Luis Enrique maintained confidence following the loss to Monaco, suggesting that PSG deserved a more decisive victory and downplaying the seven-point gap separating the club from league leaders Monaco. “If you want to bet on who will be champion at the end of the season, we can make a bet,” Enrique said, adding that the team would work to close the gap promptly.

Despite Enrique’s optimism, midfielder Joao Neves acknowledged the team is not performing at its best, a sentiment echoed by Monaco’s coach, Filipe Luis, who noted PSG's lack of form and the effectiveness of his team’s high pressing.

Recruitment and attacking issues appear to underpin PSG’s difficulties. None of the club’s key attacking players—including Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele, Desire Doue, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia—have scored in the past four matches. Dembele was even omitted from the lineup against Lille and was used sparingly against Monaco. Meanwhile, veteran defender Marquinhos and new signing Ferran Torres, whose two late goals rescued a draw at Rennes, have been the team’s main goal contributors.

Enrique expressed satisfaction with PSG’s summer transfer acquisitions, highlighting the arrivals of Spain World Cup champion Ferran Torres, French winger Maghnes Akliouche, and Belgian prospect Mika Godts. All three are forward players expected to adapt to PSG’s complex system, which emphasizes high pressing and relentless work rate, a process that may require additional time.

However, the club did part ways with several key offensive players during the transfer window. Striker Goncalo Ramos departed for AC Milan, midfielder Lee Kang-in moved to Atletico Madrid, and winger Bradley Barcola joined Liverpool. Each had played important roles in PSG’s previous campaigns, praised for scoring ability, technical skill, and versatility.

Enrique’s efforts over three years to establish a tightly knit, cohesive unit may have been disrupted by these changes, particularly to the attack. The team currently appears susceptible to rapid counterattacks and must quickly refine its transitional play, a previously reliable strength.

PSG is set to host Slovan Bratislava in the Champions League on Wednesday, where a positive result could provide a crucial boost to the team’s confidence and trajectory.