Paris Saint-Germain has secured a vital away victory, clinching a 3-2 win against AS Monaco at the Stade Louis II in the first leg of their 2025-2026 Champions League playoff tie. With the return leg scheduled for February 25, PSG now holds a slender advantage as they head back to Paris. Following the thrilling encounter, PSG’s head coach, Luis Enrique, shared his thoughts with Canal+ on a match that tested his team’s mettle.
A Sensational Mentality in the Face of Adversity
When questioned about his enjoyment of the result and the team’s performance, Luis Enrique let out a sigh, acknowledging the unique challenges presented by the match. “It was a unique match because the first attack resulted in a goal,” he began. “And I think the second time they overcame the pressure, they scored the second goal. So, it was very difficult, and it’s easy to lose confidence individually and collectively because it’s incredible.”
Despite going down early, PSG managed to rally. “I think we overcame that moment, we created chances, we also missed a penalty,” the coach reflected. “The team was sensational, if not in terms of football, then in terms of mentality. It was very complicated.” This emphasis on mental fortitude highlights the character Luis Enrique has instilled in his squad, especially in high-pressure European fixtures.
Navigating the Complexities of Player Management
The conversation then shifted to the delicate art of player management – knowing when to introduce a substitute or protect a player. Luis Enrique described this as a normal part of the game, particularly for a team that, while experienced, is also quite young. “There are things for every player, and we’re a very young team,” he stated. “We have experience, but this year we feel like we’re winning, and we like that pressure to win.”
He elaborated on the team’s current mindset: “Everyone knows we can win again, but since there are difficult moments in matches, it’s hard to overcome them, and today we showed that.” This ability to navigate and conquer challenging periods within a game is a key indicator of a team’s growth and resilience.
A Special Acknowledgment for the Fans
A significant portion of Luis Enrique’s praise was reserved for the travelling PSG supporters. “We can overcome whatever the situation, and especially today I want to thank our fans, who are incredible,” he declared with genuine emotion. “I’ve never seen fans of this caliber, either as a player or a coach.”
The coach recounted the impact of their unwavering support, even when the team was trailing. “In the first half, we were losing 2-0. I just listened to the way they were encouraging the team, and it was incredible,” he said. “This victory is for them. It’s a real pleasure to be here.” This powerful endorsement underscores the vital role of fan support in motivating players through difficult spells.
High Praise for Désiré Doué
Finally, Luis Enrique addressed the performance of young midfielder Désiré Doué, who has recently faced criticism. “Last week, everyone was criticizing him,” the coach noted, before passionately defending his player. “Désiré is an incredible player; he’s a different kind of player. We have many players of this level, very young, and with a lot of ambition.”
He expressed his delight for Doué’s contribution in the Monaco match: “I’m very happy for him because he deserves this performance, and he was very important.” This public show of support and confidence in a young player is crucial for their development and demonstrates Luis Enrique’s commitment to nurturing talent within the PSG squad. The victory against Monaco, while hard-fought, serves as a testament to the team’s character, resilience, and the inspirational backing of their fans.
