PSG vs Tottenham: Luis Enrique speaks out ahead of the clash | OneFootball

Luis Enrique

In addition to discussing the Gianluigi Donnarumma situation, the Spanish tactician touched on the Ballon d'Or and the unique season that awaits his team. Here are some of his key statements.

What is PSG capable of after just one week of training?

"To be honest, I don't know. Because it's very different from what we usually do. But that's how the schedule is. We had less than three weeks (of vacation) and we started training with the joy of preparing for this match in the best possible way. But I can't say what level we can reach."

Can you explain the decision to leave Gianluigi Donnarumma out?

"Lucas Chevalier and Renato (Marin) have arrived, Renato as well. These are always tough decisions to make, I know that. And I can only speak highly of 'Gigio' Donnarumma. He's one of the best players in his position, no doubt about it. And he's an even better person. But we're looking for a different goalkeeper profile. And I repeat, it's always difficult to make these kinds of decisions."

After winning the Champions League, what is your number one challenge this season?

"What we achieved last season was a goal for all Parisian fans, for the club, and for all the players who have played here. Now, we want to keep making history. And making history today means winning two Champions Leagues in a row. That's our goal. Last year, I think no one believed we could win the Champions League. And we showed everyone that we could. It's a dream to win the Champions League twice in a row. It will be very difficult. We know that, but we're happy to have this dream."

What do you think of this Tottenham team, and is it true you were close to joining the Spurs in 2023?

"It's hard to judge this team because they've recently changed managers and have new players, too. They've already played a few friendlies. I don't know what kind of game they're going to plan, but it will be tough because they've had a month of training and we've only had a week. But that's no excuse. We'll try to give our best. As for the past, yes, I had a few options six months before coming to Paris, and indeed, Tottenham was one of them."

"I think I've already spoken about what this award means—it's very important for people in the football world. But for us, as a team, our only goal last year was to show that the stars played for the team. I think that's the key. And I think it's wonderful for all PSG fans and players to know there are nine players in this list of 30. I even think there could be more because they deserve it. But from there, I believe we've moved on to team goals, not individual ones. It's a team sport, and that means our club, our players, our supporters want the team to win trophies on a global scale, as a team. As a result of these collective achievements, individual awards may come, but they're never our primary objectives, not at all."

Have you really been able to savor what you accomplished last year?

"I think it's totally normal. It happens even more often now because there's so much pressure from all the different competitions. But I have to say I'm still thrilled to be here in front of you and to start this new season. This season will be a great challenge for us, the players, and the team, because we really have the chance to make more history in Paris, which means winning more major trophies. But I understand what that golfer meant. By the way, on my way to the press conference, I saw four of my players playing in the hallway. I have four players playing right now, because that's part of our DNA. This is what we love to do. It's not a job. It's not a business. It's our life. I'm delighted to have these kinds of players in my squad. We try to enjoy it as much as possible. Of course, the pressure is always there, but I think we can handle it."

Did you prepare for possible penalties? Do you have a new Donnarumma in goal?

"No, we haven't prepared for penalties. We've only had five training sessions—six, sorry. But I repeat, and it's normal given the level of Gigio Donnarumma, my goal, as always, is to improve the team, and I try to do that in the best possible way. I think I was clear enough in my last answer (about Donnarumma). So, again, no, we haven't prepared for a possible penalty shootout."

When you talk about a different profile, do you mean that for a goalkeeper it's more important to play with their feet than to make saves? Or are you thinking of something else?

"I think I've already answered that question perfectly, and there's no point repeating myself. You'd like me to, but there's nothing more to add. It's my decision, it's the club's decision, and they support me. From there, we try to find the best solution for everyone involved."

I imagine you're a bit tired. You lost in the Club World Cup final. Are you ready?

"What defined us last season was our unity, our togetherness. We faced tough moments in every competition last season. But what set us apart, what allowed us to stand out, was the very high level of our players—the stars—all serving the team. And that's something we mustn't forget. Tomorrow, we'll try to give the best version of ourselves. Obviously, the match conditions are quite special. But we'll try to take the game to a place where we think we can be better. We'll see tomorrow if we're capable of that."