On Friday, during Matchday 28 of the 2025-2026 Ligue 1 season, Paris Saint-Germain (1st) will face Toulouse (9th) at the Parc des Princes (kick-off at 8:45 pm, CET). On the eve of this match, PSG coach Luis Enrique answered several questions at a press conference.
Luis Enrique: “We’ll see the players’ fitness.”
Will players be rested against Toulouse?
We have very positive information, as there are no injuries. But with tonight’s training session, we’ll see the players’ fitness levels. We need to manage this return from the international break. We know how difficult it is. We have to plan for the whole month.
Fabian Ruiz close to returning?
You’ll see tonight’s training session to see which players are ready for tomorrow. He’s improving, but I think there’s still a little time. There are always injuries, and it’s difficult to manage the workload of minutes and travel. It will be good news, but we still have to wait.
Luis Enrique: “I can understand that everyone is looking out for their own interests.”
Referee audio with VAR?
I’m always open to anything that can improve football. If the referee can do that and make everyone understand his decision, I think that’s positive. But we need to know how it will be done. I’m open to exploring and experimenting to improve football.
Why was the match against Lens postponed? Do you understand Lens’ refusal?
Our position is clear, based on what we stand for. I understand there are different points of view. I understand what Lens thinks. But we have to accept the decision. It’s normal, that’s life. I can understand that everyone is defending their own interests.
Does it bother you that salaries are published in the press? Does it cause a stir in the locker room?
In the locker room, do you think they’re interested in my salary? I think that’s irrelevant. I’m one of the highest-paid coaches in the world, which is great for me! (smiles).
Luis Enrique: “The most important thing is a good recovery.”
How is Barcola doing? Could he play in the return leg against Liverpool?
I don’t know, I can’t give any information. When I talk to him, I ask for his opinion and how he’s feeling; there’s nothing specific. There’s no rush. The most important thing is a good recovery. As for when he’ll be ready, we’ll have to wait and see.
Is it important to talk to the players about the return after the break?
I think they’re very intelligent; they know what stage of the season we’re at. Tomorrow’s match against Toulouse is the most important. We need points. Lens will play against Lille; the derby is a difficult match for them. It’s important to win, but it won’t be easy because of Toulouse’s level. I know my players are intelligent; we have to be ready for difficulties. Winning tomorrow is a clear objective.
Luis Enrique: “When we have all the information, we can think about it.”
A unique week in the preparation, what kind of squad rotation can we expect? How can we best prepare for Liverpool?
It’s a bit like Tetris, juggling the travel, playing time, and the players’ feelings. When we have all the information, we can think about how to win against Toulouse and prepare for Liverpool.
How is the week going for you during the break?
All the players have left, except Beraldo. He trained in his home country. And Renato Marin, who played with the U23s (Reserves squad).
Luis Enrique: “You need players who can be important even if they play less.”
What’s your opinion on Lucas Hernandez?
To win trophies, like last year, and we want to do it again, you need all the players. Tomorrow, we’ll see how important it is to have players ready no matter the match or the moment. Lucas Hernandez, every time he has the opportunity to play, he’s done so at a very high level. He has experience; he’s a top-level player. He’s been very good with the national team, and I hope he’ll be called up for the World Cup.
He’s an important player. You need players who can be important even if they play less, which isn’t easy. We have many players who are always ready. That’s very important.
Is Mbaye a different player for the national team? Where is he more comfortable?
I don’t know; you’d have to ask the player. We’ve given him a lot of confidence, and we’re continuing to do so. There are times when you’re more comfortable with your team, but that doesn’t change our opinion of him. I hope he can show his quality in Paris as well.
Luis Enrique: “I’d like the opposition to see the lineup without knowing who’s playing where.”
Mendes and Beraldo played different roles in the last match. Could this happen again tomorrow or in other matches?
Absolutely. I think that’s my dream. It’s to find 20 players who can play anywhere. To do that, you have to be generous. Often, a player prefers one position. But I’d like 20 players who can play everywhere. Nuno Mendes as a full-back, winger, number 9… everywhere. Except the goalkeeper. I’d like the opposition to see the lineup without knowing who’s playing where. It’s a dream, it will be very difficult, but I’m working towards it.
A word about Toulouse?
What I can say is that this match was special for João Neves, with a top-level hat trick. Toulouse is having a great season. When they lose away, it’s always a close game. That shows how difficult it is. We know how they play, how they defend.
It won’t be easy, even more so after the break. It’s always a tricky match. We’ll try to control the game and win. This is the most important moment of the season; we need the three points.
