Officially appointed head of Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday, the Spanish technician revealed to the media the main lines of his game plan.
That’s it, Luis Enrique is the coach of Paris Saint-Germain. The one who has made the Parisian club suffer so much, as a player and as a coach, will now have the mission of leading it to the heights, in particular in Europe. For his first appearance in front of the press, delayed by aircraft problems encountered by Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, the Iberian technician presented his project, his ambitions, his desires, while taking care not to say too much. A press briefing during which its president also stood out, with a sharp exit about Kylian Mbappé.
A game focused on the offensive and winning
Known for his desire to offer attacking football, Luis Enrique has not betrayed his reputation. Calling it “non-negotiable“this need to have an attack-oriented identity, he also tackled the idea of offering a game that will appeal to supporters. If he confided that it was necessary “obviously adapt to players“to get out”the best profit“, he promised that the offensive would be “his way of doing“.
Always with the desire to create “attacking, attacking football that is entertaining for the fans“, he also underlined his desire to obtain “results, especially“. Asked about the Champions League, he did not hide “love the pressure“and find your mission”Magnificent“.speaking”of objective“, he also assured that the lack of experience of PSG vis-à-vis other teams, “doesn’t mean we can’t compete with them“.
A healthy cohabitation with Luis Campos and Nasser Al-Khelaifi
It is often a hot topic at Paris Saint-Germain, the agreement between the coach and his leaders. Renowned for his strong character, Luis Enrique first wanted to thank his sports director, Luis Campos, and his president, Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, for the confidence granted, before testifying his “honor“to work with the Portuguese.
In talks with the club for several weeks, the Spaniard confided that the discussions between the three men had started well before his signature, in particular with Luis Campos: “OWe weren’t able to talk a lot about our opinions, what we want to do and how we want to do it, and I think we’re 100% on board. I am convinced that we will have a great team.“
No contact with players yet
If Luis Enrique discovered the new facilities at the Poissy training center, which he seemed to appreciate, underlining the importance of an environment “comfortable but not luxurious“, however, he has not yet had contact with his players. He said he simply met Presnel Kimpembe, Nordi Mukiele and Nuno Mendes, present on site because in the recovery or rehabilitation phase.
In addition, he also clarified that the content of his discussions with his players would remain private, arguing that “this is information that must remain internal“, arguing that he was coming”without imposing anything“and with the will to make decisions”in consensus“. He also plans individual interviews with his players.
Kylian Mbappé, a case not yet settled
Asked about the potential presence of the club star at the start of next season, the Spaniard did not hide that the situation was not entirely under his control. “A host of things can happen and these are discussions that I will keep private (…) we will try to put together the best possible squad.“
A subject on which the president of the club also intervened, Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, who did not mince his words about an extension from the native of Bondy. “If Kylian wants to stay, and that’s what we want, he has to sign a new contract. On can’t let the best player in the world go for free, it’s impossible.”