A closer look at recent statistics supports the widespread praise for PSG and Barcelona.
In expected goals (xG) per league match across Europe’s top five divisions since last season, Barcelona (2.56) rank second and PSG (2.22) third. Only Bayern Munich (3.06) rank higher than both.
Barcelona also rank second for total goals and goals per match over the same period, while PSG sit sixth and fifth in those respective categories.
PSG, however, have played fewer league matches than Barcelona, Inter Milan, Real Madrid and Manchester City, all of whom feature among the leading sides in the relevant rankings.
The depth of PSG’s squad has allowed them to make sweeping changes in Ligue 1 without surrendering results.
They defeated Strasbourg 3-1 on Saturday despite making eight changes to the lineup that had won 4-2 in the Champions League three days earlier.
European football journalist Raphael Honigstein said: “They have earned the right to rest their players.”
Barcelona have also strengthened their squad depth this season, significantly increasing their attacking output.
In 10 of their 11 matches in all competitions this season, they have scored at least three goals. In six of those matches, they have scored five or more.
BBC Sport’s Spanish football correspondent Elizabeth Conway said: “The most obvious difference is the squad depth they have added through excellent signings such as Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi.
“They have brought real pace and directness to their attack, while Gabriel Jesus has given them another option in attack. It has been pivotal.”