Luis Enrique sends confident message ahead of Newcastle clash

PSG coach speaks before decisive Newcastle match

Luis Enrique sends confident message ahead of Newcastle clash

Paris Saint Germain coach Luis Enrique said the real Champions League starts in the knockout rounds promising unbeaten team ahead of Newcastle clash.

Paris Saint-Germain head coach Luis Enrique believes the “real” Champions League only begins once the knockout rounds start as his side prepare for crucial group stage match against Newcastle United.

PSG host Newcastle on Wednesday evening at Parc des Princes in final round of the league phase.

The French champions sit sixth with 13 point, level on points with Newcastle in seventh.

The top eight teams qualify directly for the round of 16 while sides placed from ninth to 24th must play two leg playoff.

“We are used to difficult matches”

Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Tuesday, Enrique said the atmosphere around matches of this level is always different.

He explained that PSG used to difficult games and are preparing calmly for another major European night.

The Spanish coach revealed that several players have returned and are fully fit calling it positive news for the squad. He also praised the intensity of the latest training session and stressed how important the Champions League is for the club.

Enrique made it clear that PSG’s immediate target is to finish the league phase inside the top eight and secure direct place in the last 16 by winning against very strong Newcastle side.

“The real Champions League starts later”

Despite the importance of the match, Enrique suggested that the coming stages matter even more.

He said that even if PSG had to go through the playoff round as they did last season, he would accept it if it ended with winning the Champions League.

“The real Champions League starts in the knockout rounds” Enrique said.

He added that when that moment arrives, PSG will be “an unbeatable team” and promised his side will prove it again.

Squad updates: Hakimi & Zaïre-Emery

Enrique also spoke about Achraf Hakimi who recently returned from the Africa Cup of Nations.

He confirmed that the Moroccan defender has taken part in the last three training sessions and said his condition looks good although final decision will be made on matchday.

On Warren Zaïre-Emery, Enrique praised the youngster’s versatility and personality. He said the midfielder can play in several positions and described him as important player for both the present and the future.

Youth policy and new signing

The PSG coach also commented on the club’s recent move for Drew Fernandez from Barcelona.

Enrique said PSG prefer talented young players and believe Fernandez could become a key player in the future.

He added that the club remains open to opportunities during the transfer window and will be ready to act if the right option appears.