Luis Enrique: We Train in Ligue 1 for the Match Against Arsenal
Luis Enrique, the head coach of Paris Saint-Germain, claimed that his team’s ceremonial matches in Ligue 1 serve as preparation for success in the UEFA Champions League.
Paris Saint-Germain continued their winning streak in Ligue 1 with a narrow 2-1 victory over Le Havre, maintaining their lead at the top of the table with 77 points.
Luis Enrique said in the post-match press conference: “I remember almost everything. We had already predicted that this match would be very complicated, especially after a competition like the Champions League, which takes all our energy.
Preparing for the match against Le Havre, who needed points, had all the ingredients to make it a bad game for us. This match was a trap, and it was very clear. But I must congratulate my players; some of them played in different positions, and we were at a high level both with and without the ball, which allowed us to win the game.”
What is your plan for the next two matches in Ligue 1 before facing Arsenal?
It is clear that the Champions League is a common and general goal. We must stay in a competitive condition to prepare for the Champions League and the Coupe de France final.
We must use every opportunity and every minute we have to achieve our goals. This means being generous. Not all players can always play, but we need everyone.
There may be injuries and suspensions, so we must be ready to help the team. With these players, the priority is the team, and then they think about themselves.
What do you think about the performance of your young players, Senny Mayulu and Ibrahima Mbaye, or those who usually get less playing time?
I liked both of them. Senny has more weight in the first team. He is fully integrated into the team’s dynamics and was excellent today. He showed he can play in another position and performed well, so I congratulate him.
Ibrahima is only 17 years old and played with a good rhythm both with and without the ball. His presence with us has been pleasant for me, and he is fully ready to help the team.
The players’ approach was fantastic. Many played in different positions, we played well, and we knew what to do in every situation. Warren made sacrifices, so did Senny, and Kang-in Lee also played as a winger.
For Désiré Doué, it was a tough test. Against Rennes, he played as a winger and scored an amazing goal here. He is an outstanding player at a very high level and very ambitious. Having players like him is a pleasure for me.