Luis Enrique Discusses PSG’s Champions League Prospects Ahead of Sporting Match

Luis Enrique held a press conference on Monday at Estadio José Alvalade, ahead of the Champions League match between PSG and Sporting Lisbon.

Excited to return to the Champions League, which he labeled as “the best competition” for players and teams, Luis Enrique wore a smile during the pre-match press briefing. Addressing the pivotal phase of the season for Paris SG, the Spanish coach expressed that this period ranks among the best of the season.

Luis Enrique at the Press Conference in Lisbon

Where Can PSG Still Improve This Season?

“We’re entering a crucial part of the season. We are recovering injured players, and this is the best time of the year. It’s a significant moment in the Champions League as only two matches remain. Tomorrow, in this exceptional stadium, facing a team like Sporting will be challenging. They possess quality and defend well. While we are aware of the tough schedule ahead, I am currently pleased. Our goal is to secure a win tomorrow and confirm our qualification for the knockout stage.”

The Team Transforms in the Champions League

“There’s no better competition for players and the team. This season, the team’s trajectory is unique, yet it mirrors last year’s journey. In the early part of last season, our gameplay was exceptional. We dominated matches and played beautifully. We lacked efficiency, but much remains similar.”

Ousmane Dembélé as a Key Defender

“Certainly, as always when he plays. I mentioned our last match against LOSC, where we struggled with pressing in the first half but improved in the second. Ousmane is a leader in pressing, and it’s impressive to see a player with such individual quality demonstrating the character to press and show the team he will challenge the center-backs and goalkeeper. I am thrilled to see him back at his best.”

His Thoughts on PSG’s Portuguese Players

“I am fortunate to work with four Portuguese players, as well as with the sporting director, who is also Portuguese. They are exceptional both personally and professionally. It is a pleasure and a privilege to have these players available.”

Brahim Diaz’s Penalty in the CAN Final

“We discussed this on the bus today. Everyone talks about Brahim, but Zidane, who is the god of football, did this in the World Cup final. I remember Sergio Ramos doing it too. If you score a Panenka, everyone applauds. If you miss, everyone talks about it. Brahim Diaz is a magnificent player; I know him well as I brought him into the Spanish national team. It’s an unfair situation, but it’s just sports. One must learn to win and lose. In sports, the most important thing is the values you can show people. He is not a criminal or a bad person; he’s a young player facing a tough moment.”

Is Joao Neves Injured?

“Nothing serious. There are moments in the season when every player needs to be rested. He is not injured; at least, nothing significant. We do not want to take risks with any player. Currently, his health has improved. If this match were a final, he could have played. However, we maintain our mentality of avoiding risks with any player.”

Hakimi and Mbappe’s Return: What’s Their Condition?

“That’s life. It’s like when a coach leaves because the club decides so. It’s nothing peculiar, just life. Senegal won, and we must congratulate the champion. We should also commend the Moroccans. I have to acknowledge Hakimi’s work as a player. Will they be back soon? Yes, of course; they are very expensive for us (laughs).”

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