Paris Saint-Germain concluded their pre-season friendly matches without a victory after drawing 1-1 against Manchester United in Gothenburg, Sweden, on Saturday. The fixture was the club's final preparation match before taking on Aston Villa in the European Super Cup on Wednesday in Salzburg.
The double European champions started quickly when Ibrahim Mbaye opened the scoring in the second minute. Kvaratskhelia shifted the ball to Dro Fernandez on the left side, whose cross set up Mbaye for the goal. Kvaratskhelia came close to doubling the lead immediately after the restart.
Brian Mbeumo equalized for Manchester United in the 32nd minute. Mbeumo capitalized on a failed clearance by 16-year-old Axel Koukaba, who reflected an inexperienced team.
Squad rotation and second half changes
Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique made only two changes from the youthful starting lineup that lost 0-3 to Mallorca three days earlier, notably starting Pacho at central defense. Paris Saint-Germain produced a more consistent performance this time.
Luis Enrique initially fielded none of the four returning World Cup players, João Neves, Nuno Mendes, Vitinha, and Marquinhos. However, he brought all four onto the pitch together for the final half hour.
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick responded three minutes later with a five-player substitution. Carrick brought on Youri Tielemans, who joined Manchester United in July from Europa League winners Aston Villa.
The introduction of Paris Saint-Germain's senior players in the 62nd minute heightened the match dynamics. Paris Saint-Germain controlled high possession, but Manchester United frequently broke through and created the most dangerous chances.
Upcoming competitive fixtures
The French champions will gradually reintegrate other absent international players, including French players and new signing Maghnès Akliouche, for upcoming competitive matches. After facing Aston Villa on Wednesday, Paris Saint-Germain play Lens next Sunday in Lens for the Trophée des Champions against last season's French Cup winners and league runners-up.
Paris Saint-Germain then begin their Ligue 1 season on August 23 at the Parc des Princes against Stade Rennais.
