It is not a match like the others, and it was not a press conference like the others. On the eve of the Champions League shock between FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain this Wednesday in Montjuïc, all eyes were turned to Luis Enrique. For the Parisian coach, this trip is a real pilgrimage, a return to his “club” and his “city”. Faced with the media, the Asturian has sailed with a rare intensity between an emotion on edge, its legendary irony and a concentration of competitor already turned towards the tactical battle that promises to be.
“An incredible gesture”: the palpable emotion of the Parisian coach
The strongest moment of this exchange was undoubtedly when Luis Enrique spoke to thank its president. PSG will exceptionally wear the name of the “Xana Fundacion” – the foundation created in memory of its daughter – on its jersey for this match. An initiative that deeply touched the coach. “” It's a very special gesture for us“He said, the voice probably charged with emotion. “” We will not forget this gesture so thank you to the president. A moment of grace that transcended the purely sporting frame, revealing the man behind the coach.
The Catalan press? “Another way to show your love …”
But the emotion has not erased the well -tempered character of Luis Enrique. Asked about his relationship, often stormy, with the Catalan press, he replied with the scathing irony that characterizes him. “” I have always felt appreciated by the press (he quips). This is another way of showing your love“He said, causing smiles in the room. A way of recognizing past criticism while swept them away from a backhand, showing that he has lost none of his distribution.
Barça-Psg: Luis Enrique reveals his emotions and his tactic
The battle for the ball, key to a “mirrors shock”
However, the professional quickly resumed the upper hand. For him, this return to the “house” is above all a huge sporting challenge. “” I am a football professional and the socios know it”He recalled. His match analysis is clear: a shock between two teams that “look alike”, who have the “same mentality” offensive. The key? Possession. “” The goal will be to have the ball as usual but it will be difficult with players like Pedri, Jong, Cubarsi and Yamal. The battle of the midfielder promises to be epic.
Luis Enrique happy to come back, but to win
In conclusion, this press conference offered a complete portrait of Luis Enrique: a grateful man moved by the gesture of his club, a clever and ironic communicator in front of the press, and above all a fierce competitor. If it is ” Happy to come back In this Montjuïc stadium where he played the Olympic Games in 1992, he did not come to a tourist. Regardless of the absences or the form of his circles, he assured it: PSG will arise in “real team” with a single goal in mind, go “win the match”. The welcome will be warm, but in the field, there will be no room for feelings.
