Damien Perrinelle, who faced Paris Saint-Germain four times this season with AS Monaco as assistant coach, was asked by L’Equipe to share his thoughts on the team Luis Enrique has built at PSG. He highlighted what makes “the difference.”
“Luis Enrique is capable of making changes, but without ever altering these key elements.”
“The team reflects him. That’s where he’s been strong, because that’s the ultimate goal for a coach. He remains focused on his principles: quick transitions and possession. But it’s also the best team in terms of pressing and counter-pressing. He’s capable of making changes to other areas, but without ever touching these key elements. That’s the difference. Once he’s got the whole dressing room behind him, he can then fine-tune the details.”
Luis Enrique approaches football with passion, enjoyment, and a desire to have the ball. It’s easy to see that this PSG team embodies this idea. The idea of fearing big matches has been firmly set aside; the focus now is on enjoying the game and playing well. And all this with a certain confidence, regardless of the situation or the opponent.
This doesn’t preclude adapting the game at times; you have to be open and not stubborn when something isn’t working. However, the philosophy remains unchanged. And the players seem to be fully embracing Luis Enrique’s approach, both in terms of player management and tactics. It’s wonderful to see such balance, such true harmony. We can only hope it continues for a long time, even though we know that nothing lasts forever. In football, things can change very quickly. As the coach regularly emphasizes, that’s precisely why it’s essential to savor every moment.
