“Far better now”: Luis Enrique confident PSG ready for Arsenal challenge at Emirates
Paris Saint-Germain head coach Luis Enrique believes his side are fully prepared to handle the pressure when they meet Arsenal in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final at the Emirates Stadium tomorrow night.
Despite a 2-0 defeat to the Gunners earlier this season, Enrique is convinced that PSG have developed significantly since that encounter and are ready to challenge for a place in the final.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Enrique insisted that PSG’s growth over the campaign would be crucial. “I think the game you are talking about was on October 1st,” he said. “There are massive differences. We are far better now, and we proved it throughout this competition.”
PSG faced a challenging group stage but overcame both Liverpool and Aston Villa in the knockout rounds, building momentum towards this pivotal clash.
Despite recently clinching another Ligue 1 title, PSG’s preparations suffered a slight dent after losing 3-1 to Nice on Friday, ending their hopes of completing an unbeaten domestic season.
Enrique, however, brushed aside concerns, focusing instead on what he described as the “primordial” need to manage the key phases of the match. “There will be pressing moments and defensive moments, and we must handle them well,” he explained.
Arsenal, meanwhile, approach the fixture on a high, having dispatched Real Madrid 5-1 on aggregate in the quarter-finals. Mikel Arteta’s side have enjoyed a formidable run at the Emirates, going unbeaten in their last 11 Champions League home matches.
With little left to fight for domestically, the Gunners have been able to focus entirely on their European ambitions, targeting a first final appearance since 2006.
PSG’s record against English clubs away from home paints a less optimistic picture, with five defeats in their last six trips.
Nevertheless, they will take encouragement from their success against Premier League sides earlier in the campaign, and believe their improved structure under Enrique can see them past Arsenal.
Midfielder Vitinha also addressed the media, admitting that his form had dipped but expressing confidence in his ability to perform when it matters. “It happens,” he said. “Of course I do everything to be at my best but I am not worried at all.”
Asked about Arsenal’s physicality in midfield, he added, “We managed it against Liverpool. We will do everything possible to win tomorrow.”
Vitinha also credited Enrique for refining his game. “Before, I thought it was better to cover as much ground as possible, but sometimes it is not the best option,” he said. “On a personal level, he is incredible too.”
Both clubs have never lifted the Champions League trophy, meaning the winner of this tie will move one step closer to making history.
