So far, Luis Enrique had crossed the Parisian storm with an astonishing serenity. Waterproof for pressure, constant in his speech, he had managed to preserve a form of Olympian calm despite the turmoil of an agitated season. But as the Champions League final approaches, the Spanish technician suddenly changed. Upon his arrival at the Allianz Arena, a muscular exchange with a journalist broke the mask of tranquility he had been working for months.
Everything started from an interrogation that has become almost recurring: “Why did PSG work better without Mbappé?” A remark that Luis Enrique this time deemed moved. In a dry tone, he replied:
“Maybe you didn't want to see this harmony. I don't like what you imply. »» An outing that contrasts with his measured responses from the past few weeks, where he still agreed to evoke the inheritance left by the striker who left for Real Madrid. This time, a few hours before what could be a historic moment for Paris, the Spaniard has obviously no longer wanted to enter this game.
Mbappé invites himself in spite of himself in the PSG final
If he had so far tolerated the debate, Luis Enrique has obviously considered that this timing, on the eve of a European summit, crossed a limit. In his eyes, evoking the absence of a player-even if he mbappé-amounts to denigrating the collective he has shaped all season. “I have always had an exceptional group. What I want is a team, not individuals ”, he hammered firmly. A clear reminder to his philosophy, focused on cohesion rather than personal exploits.
Luis Enrique: “I don't like what you imply”
If the shape has surprised, the substance is not new. Since the start of his mandate, Luis Enrique has been insisting on the idea of collective progression. This punctual blood blow illustrates how the stake of this final exceeds the tactical framework. For him, this team represents much more than a system. She embodies a project. And that it is further reduced to the Mbappé question visibly irritates it to the highest point.
While Paris is preparing to compete in the most important final in its history, this tension recalls that the Mbappé heritage continues to weigh in the spirits. But for Luis Enrique, this final is above all an opportunity to turn the page. “Our path was winding, but it is a force. Tonight, we won't be afraid ”, he concluded. A clear message, launched to the whole world, and perhaps also to those who still doubt PSG post-mm version.
