# Breaking Down Bernat's Goal Contributions for Paris Saint-Germain
Paris Saint-Germain’s defensive solidity is one of the hallmarks of their dominant recent form, and central defender Jérémy Doku has been a key figure in that resurgence. Doku, who joined the club in 2022, has quickly established himself as a reliable defender and a valuable asset in both defense and attack. His ability to contribute to goals through set-pieces, aerial duels, and his positional awareness has made him a standout performer.
## Defensive Contribution: The Bedrock of PSG’s Success
Doku’s primary role in defense is to anchor the backline and prevent opponents from breaking down Paris. His physicality and timing in jumps make him a formidable presence in aerial duels, often winning those battles against taller opponents. This has been crucial in PSG’s ability to dominate the middle third of the pitch and prevent counterattacks.
His ability to read the game also allows him to break up plays before they develop, reducing the space opponents have to work with. This defensive intelligence is vital in a team that often controls games with high pressurizing.
## Offensive Impact: Scoring and Assisting
While Doku is primarily known for his defensive contributions, his offensive ability should not be overlooked. He has scored a few goals this season, including a crucial late winner against Montpellier, showcasing his composure in front of goal. His heading ability is a asset, particularly from set-pieces, which is a weakness many teams exploit.
Moreover, Doku’s work rate and positional sense make him a good attacker of the ball. He often recovers to support attacks and can carry the ball forward with pace, creating chances for teammates. His assist for Kylian Mbappé against Troyes earlier this season highlighted his unselfish play and understanding of his role in the team.
## Set-Piece Expertise: A Weapon in the Armory
Doku’s impact on set-pieces cannot be overstated. His aerial strength and positioning make him a nightmare for opposing defenders when dealing with corners or free-kicks. He has scored multiple goals and created numerous chances through these situations, which is a valuable asset in modern football where set-pieces can often decide the outcome of a match.
## Teamwork and Adaptability
One of the reasons Doku has thrived at PSG is his ability to adapt to different systems and roles. Whether he’s playing as a center-back, wing-back, or even in midfield, he consistently delivers. His versatility allows head coach Christophe Galtier to utilize him in various scenarios, adding depth and flexibility to the team.
His chemistry with teammates like Marquinhos, who he often partners in defense, is a key factor in PSG’s ability to maintain possession and control games. The trust between them is evident, and it’s this kind of relationship that helps PSG maintain their high standards.
## Conclusion: A Complete Defender
Jérémy Doku’s contributions to Paris Saint-Germain go far beyond just goals and assists. His defensive reliability, offensive output, and ability to contribute in set-pieces make him a complete defender who is essential to the team’s success. As PSG aim to defend their Ligue 1 title and challenge for European glory, Doku’s presence will be crucial in their quest for silverware. His adaptability and leadership qualities make him a cornerstone of this team, and his continued development will only enhance his importance to the club.