Paris Saint Germain vs Lyonnais - Quality has shone through in new arrivals - Emery

Posted Saturday, September 16, 2017 by PA

Unai Emery believes Neymar and Kylian Mbappe's quality has helped them seamlessly settle in with their Paris St Germain team-mates.

The summer signings' first two games together since Mbappe's arrival at the close of the transfer window have brought two wins and 10 goals for PSG.

And Emery told the club's website ahead of Sunday's game against Lyon: "With the quality they have, I think it's easier. That's why the players have adapted well to the team.

"When we have players of this quality, I hope we can keep working and their team-mates can benefit. It is about working together in every training session and every match."

Edinson Cavani has been the chief beneficiary, scoring two goals both in the 5-1 win over Metz and the 5-0 Champions League success against Celtic, with his higher-profile strike partners also both on target in each game.

OL will provide a tougher test, despite the summer departures of the likes of Alexandre Lacazette and Corentin Tolisso this summer.

Emery said: "Lyon have lost some important players but have signed young players who could develop.

"They control the ball well, have lots of possession and are quick in the transitions between defence and attack.

"For us, it is very important to win the game in front of our supporters at the Parc. Every game is a test and we have to prepare well."

Bruno Genesio insists his Lyon side can compete in the Parc des Princes on Sunday, and told the club's website: "We cannot go there as 'victims'.

"They are one of the best teams in Europe at the moment. Over the whole season, no team can compete with PSG but in one match, it is possible.

"We are a team of competitors. It's a match where we have everything to gain."

Genesio played down the possible impact of Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas' latest outspoken remarks on his team's rivals.

PSG owner Nasser Al-Khelaifi is a member of the Qatari government and Aulas made reference to "state funding" as he labelled PSG's means "incompatible with those of other French clubs", adding that he will travel to the capital with "a clear conscience".

PSG midfielder Adrien Rabiot told reporters in France: "The fans are tired of this. The players don't pay attention to that."

And Genesio said: "Paris do not need additional motivation in order to want to win. I don't think these things will come into their thinking.

"There is some truth in what the president said. He is responsible for what he says."

Emery is "optimistic" Rabiot will be fit to play on Sunday, but Angel Di Maria and Javier Pastore are unlikely to feature while Marco Verratti is suspended.

Jordan Ferri is doubtful for Lyon with a calf problem while Pape Cheikh Diop is still sidelined by a similar issue.