Paris Saint-Germain secured a 2-1 victory over Aston Villa this Wednesday at the Red Bull Arena in Salzburg in the 2026 UEFA Super Cup. Following the match, PSG head coach Luis Enrique spoke at a press conference.
Luis Enrique: “Further proof of the team’s mindset, of our DNA.”
What impressed you most about your team? Are they still just as hungry?
To be honest, we knew before the match that it would be difficult given the conditions. But we were able to play the way we did because our players continue to show what they are made of. Even though we aren’t at our physical peak, I think this is further proof of the team’s mindset—of our DNA. Our fans help us win trophies and maintain our ambition. I want to emphasize that: it is very easy for me to motivate the players.
Does the team ever have doubts?
There are moments during the match when the opposition manages to gain the upper hand or create chances. But we know our style of play inside out. It is harder when many players are missing from training; it was a challenging situation for a final. But I am very happy to see a competitive team. It is important for the club and for the fans. This is our second consecutive UEFA Super Cup win.
Luis Enrique: “We’ll continue in the same vein, though there are still things to improve as a team.”
Another trophy on PSG’s anniversary?
I have a lot of experience; I know how hard it is to win a trophy. We have a desire to win trophies—there’s a real hunger there. We built a very young squad three years ago. We plan to keep going the same way, even though there are still areas for improvement as a team. But I am very happy to have the opportunity to coach a team with such character.
How significant is the Super Cup for PSG’s history and your own career?
To be honest, it isn’t a major trophy. You only play for it if you’ve won the Champions League or the Europa League. Winning a trophy matters, but you aren’t judged on this specific one. Being competitive is what counts. It’s good to be competitive right from the start. We’re happy. But we are still a long way from our best level. We’ll prepare for the season as usual, with the aim of winning every trophy. That is the club’s objective and ambition, as well as the fans’.
Luis Enrique: “For me, he was sensational.”
Akliouche’s first match?
I think he was surprised to be in the starting lineup. The conditions weren’t ideal. For me, he was sensational. He played exactly the way I want. He showed what he’s made of—his character and his qualities. He won the trophy; I’m happy to see our new signings, and I think we’ll see more players who want to play for PSG and give their all for the team.
Are reinforcements needed?
I spoke about winning a third consecutive Champions League title; perhaps that shows too much confidence. But it’s our mentality to think about doing it—to believe in it. We’ve won it twice in a row. We can do it a third time. It will be very difficult, but that is the ambition and the goal.
