PSG coach welcomes Chelsea draw and rules out any revenge talk
“No revenge”: Luis Enrique responds to Chelsea draw
PSG coach Luis Enrique welcomed Champions League draw against Chelsea calling it an exciting challenge without any sense of revenge.
Enrique’s first reaction to the draw
Luis Enrique head coach of Paris Saint Germain has shared his thoughts after Champions League round of 16 draw paired his team with Chelsea.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of PSG’s Ligue 1 match against Le Havre, the Spanish coach said he was pleased with the draw and described the tie as attractive one against a top English side.
No revenge despite recent final
The clash between PSG and Chelsea will revive memories of the 2025 Club World Cup final where Chelsea defeated PSG to win first edition of the expanded tournament with 32 team.
Despite that result, Enrique made it clear there is no feeling of revenge. He stressed that Champions League is a different competition and said his focus is only on preparing his team in the best way possible.
According to Enrique, PSG know Chelsea well but the tie will be decided by form and performance, not past results.
Focus on improvement and positives
Enrique admitted that PSG still need to improve their level but said he has seen positive signs in recent performances. These indicators, he explained, give him confidence ahead of the European showdown.
The coach also spoke about the physical condition of his squad. He explained that it has been difficult to have all players fully fit this season due to a very demanding calendar.
Enrique pointed out that last season was intense followed by only three weeks of rest reminding everyone that players are human and not machines.
Match dates confirmed
The first leg between PSG and Chelsea is scheduled for 10 or 11 March with the return leg taking place the following week.
Both teams will aim to secure a place in Champions League quarter-finals.