Football
Jonathan Johnson, PSG correspondent 7y

Paris Saint-Germain chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi backs Unai Emery

Paris Saint-Germain chairman and CEO Nasser Al-Khelaifi has given coach Unai Emery his backing despite Tuesday's 2-2 draw at home to Ludogorets Razgrad that gifted Arsenal top spot in Champions League Group A. 

The French press strongly criticised Emery and his players for failing to beat the Bulgarian side and the Al-Khelaifi was asked whether this setback -- as well as other poor domestic results already this season -- could cost Emery his job prematurely.

Asked in the mixed zone after Tuesday's game whether Emery's future was in doubt, the Qatari said: "No, no, I do not know why you say that. Our coach is very good. I am not angry but I am disappointed -- I expected more of the players."

Al-Khelaifi lamented captain Thiago Silva's two headers that struck the frame of the goal and a penalty that was not given for a handball from an Angel Di Maria shot.

"Before the match, we were first in the group and our aim was to stay there," the PSG boss said. "We are going to keep working hard and focus on our next match against Nice.

"We had chances to score, but made mistakes that cost us two goals. Silva hit the woodwork twice and we should have had a penalty for a handball in the area.

"Everyone is disappointed -- the players, the coaching staff, the supporters. That is normal, because we deserved to win tonight. We had chances to win it, but we need to play better."

Goalkeeper Alphonse Areola was also disappointed, saying: "Our goal was to finish top of the group and we have failed our mission."

He added: "We are going to work and come back stronger. It is true that it hurts to concede so many goals because I try to give my best every match. It is up to us to work hard and prepare for the coming games to make sure we are at our best."

PSG face Ligue 1 leaders Nice at Parc des Princes on Sunday seeking to reduce the four-point gap at the top of the table and alleviate the pressure on Emery.

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