## Evaluating Presnel Kimpembe's Attacking Prowess at Paris Saint-Germain

While primarily renowned as a rock-solid defender, Presnel Kimpembe has increasingly demonstrated significant value contributing to PSG's attack over recent seasons. His impact goes far beyond mere clearances and interceptions. Here’s why his offensive contributions deserve recognition:

### **1. Carrying the Ball Out of Defense & Progression**

Kimpembe is exceptionally comfortable and confident in possession. Unlike many traditional center-backs who panic under pressure or hastily clear, he routinely picks up the ball deep within his own half and drives forward with purpose. Whether dribbleing through midfields or making sharp, penetrating passes, he initiates counter-attacks effectively. This ability to bypass opposition lines stabilizes buildup play and transitions smoothly into attack. Against overwhelmed blocks, his lung-busting runs become vital outlets.

### **2. Goal Threat from Set Pieces**

This is arguably his most potent weapon going forward. Standing tall at over 6'1", Kimpembe becomes a nightmare for opponents during corners and free kicks. He times his arrival perfectly in the penalty area, often arriving unmarked to power home headers or glance crosses goalward. Crucial goals scored this way – including against top rivals like Marseille – highlight how Mauricio Pochettino leveraged this strength strategically. His aerial dominance adds another dimension to PSG's set-piece routines.

### **3. Overlappping Runs & Defensive Contribution Turned Offensive**

Kimpembe intelligently reads the game to support teammates without neglecting duty. When fullbacks surge ahead, you’ll frequently spot him covering width high up the pitch, creating numerical superiority down flanks. More subtly, his intelligent positional shifts allow others to advance while maintaining structural integrity. Occasionally, late arrivals into the box also create chaos for defenders focused elsewhere.

### **Limitations & Realism**

It would be misleading to paint him as Marco Verratti reincarnated! He remains fundamentally a defender first; intricate dribbling flair isn't his main strength (though improving), and creative through balls aren't part of his core repertoire like Marquinhos’ might be. Most contributions stem from converted defending into direct progression or dead-ball situations. Yet, within that specialized role, his effectiveness is undeniable.

### **Conclusion: An Underrated Dual Threat**

In an era demanding ball-playing defenders, Kimpembe delivers exactly that for PSG. His composure on the ball initiates attacks, while his physical presence makes him a reliable goal threat from set pieces. While not prolific like strikers, his offensive contributions consistently break lines, relieve pressure, and occasionally decide matches. He embodies the modern hybrid defender whose influence stretches far beyond simply stopping shots – making him far more than just another brick wall at the back for Les Parisiens.

• Attacking
• Prowess
• Evaluating
• Kimpembe
• Presnel