Paris Saint-Germain secured a 4-2 victory over FC Barcelona this Tuesday at the Parc des Princes, as part of the third matchday of the 2026-2027 Champions League league phase. Following the win, PSG manager Luis Enrique spoke at a press conference.
Luis Enrique: “You cannot judge based solely on a result.”
Tonight, you fielded Lucas Hernandez on the left; he had an excellent match. In what ways did he meet your expectations?
“It’s clear—having a player like Lucas Hernandez, with his level of experience, is a real asset. He did an incredible job marking one of the best players in the world. He did everything right, and he even scored a goal. He’s also an important figure for the squad, thanks to his consistently positive attitude. I’m very happy for him; he deserves it.”
Do you feel that the team is making progress?
“You cannot judge based solely on a result. What stands out to me is how sensational my team was in the first half—in their pressing and in winning back possession. We also created opportunities to score.
Furthermore, we showed the ability to overcome difficult moments, such as in the second half when Barcelona dominated the play. We are a team that adapts to what is happening on the pitch. We also managed to score from counter-attacks. That speaks to the kind of team we are.”
Luis Enrique: “This is the highest level of competition you can face.”
PSG showed resilience—the team seems unsinkable. Could this match serve as a benchmark?
“I saw the typical PSG. It’s in line with our style of play. With our supporters behind us, it’s even easier to press, because we can really feel their energy.” “What I can also see is the difficulty in pressing a team of this high caliber. It’s the highest level you can possibly face.”
The evening was marred by injuries (Marquinhos, Dembélé, Kvaratskhelia); which case is the most serious?
“I’m not a doctor. I just know that the players are injured, but we’ll have to wait until tomorrow to know the exact nature of the injuries. Three injuries—three very important players—that’s the worst possible news.”
Luis Enrique: “Our DNA comes from our mentality and attitude.”
It’s only October, yet the European football world has pegged you as the top favorite; are you where you want to be?
“I couldn’t care less. These matches aren’t decisive. The decisive months begin in April. In the meantime, we aim to win every single game. The rest doesn’t matter. We have an identity—you might win or lose individual matches, but our DNA stems from our mentality and attitude.”
Do you believe you have the best midfield in the world, with Fabián Ruiz, Vitinha, and João Neves?
“Of course. And don’t forget Warren, or Mayulu and Beraldo, either. I have the best players in the world—that’s what I believe. As far as I’m concerned, they are the best. Others might think differently, but that doesn’t interest me. You have to have faith in your players, whether you win or lose.”
