Arriving anonymously at Paris Saint-Germain last winter, for 20 million euros, Brazilian defender Lucas Beraldo still does not convince Luis Enrique's staff and observers.
Lucas Beraldo remains an enigma. Arriving anonymously at PSG last winter, the Brazilian defender has still not earned his starting stripes and above all gives the impression of not being part of Luis Enrique's plans for the future. There was this solid return match, in the round of 16 of the Champions League, against Real Sociedad (2-0, February 14).
But the one against FC Barcelona in the quarter-finals first leg (2-3, during which Robert Lewandowski had fun with him), then those against Dortmund in the semi-finals (0-1, 0-1, loss of the duel against to Mats Hummels on the return) reinforced the general impression: that of a defender with a strong personality with the ball, but with too incomplete a defensive culture.
“It will continue to grow”
Deficiencies clearly more visible when Beraldo plays, as very often in recent weeks, as left back. If his qualities as a central defender seem more obvious, his placement remains uncertain and lack of impact in the air (1.82 m) poses a problem.
“He arrived very early, he is paying the price today, but he remains a very, very technically strong player,” analyzes Ricardo in L’Équipe. I remain convinced that it is a good choice by the club. It's a rare profile with this ball exit quality. The meaning of the duel, it will take more time. He will continue to grow with playing time and Champions League matches. »
