Senny Mayulu’s absence from the PSG squad against Rennes came as a surprise. Recently handed a contract extension until 2031 and involved in both finals played by Paris in August, the young midfielder nevertheless did not travel to Roazhon Park for the opening Ligue 1 matchday. It was neither an injury nor a transfer-related issue, but simply a decision made by Luis Enrique.
This promises to be a ruthless season, with Luis Enrique unwilling to give his players any special treatment. Mayulu was the first obvious example. His absence against Rennes was directly linked to his performances during the week, with the PSG coach reportedly believing that the 20-year-old had trained at a lower level than his competitors. In a particularly deep Paris squad this season, that was enough to leave him at home.
Luis Enrique Demands Maximum Competition at PSG
According to L’Équipe, the decision reflects Luis Enrique’s new approach. With a larger squad and more options available, the Spanish coach has warned that some players will inevitably be left out of matchday squads. Reputation alone will no longer be enough to secure a place. Mayulu’s case is particularly striking because he featured in the UEFA Super Cup against Aston Villa and the Trophée des Champions against Lens, while PSG had also recently secured his long-term future with a contract running until June 2031.
His absence in Rennes therefore does not necessarily cast doubt on his future in Paris. Instead, it looks like an immediate warning that even established rotation players will have to earn their place every week. Luis Enrique reinforced that message during the 2-2 draw by replacing Ousmane Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia at half-time, underlining that no status guarantees playing time.
Mayulu must now respond in training. At only 20 and under contract for several more seasons, the midfielder remains a player PSG are counting on. But in Luis Enrique’s 2026-27 Paris side, the rule appears straightforward: performances during the week will help determine who earns the right to play at the weekend.
