Daniel Riolo, a journalist with RMC Sport, spoke to the sports media during the debrief of Paris Saint-Germain’s 1-1 draw against Lille this Sunday at the Stade Pierre Mauroy as part of Matchday 7 of Ligue 1 2025-2026. He notably discussed the choices made by Parisian coach Luis Enrique and was, almost strangely, full of praise.
Riolo: “He still manages to be first.”
“Right now, he’s managing his squad. But we all know he has to do it. The players are at their wit’s end. This is roughly what we’ve been planning since the end of the Club World Cup. Everything we’ve seen indicates that at some point, it was going to happen like this.”
There was the European Super Cup, which had to be played, then the start of the Champions League, which was perfect with two wins, and you’re top of Ligue 1. He plays half the Youth League and still manages to finish first. The management is perfect.
Riolo: “Within this constraints, he maintains a strong DNA.”
He has complete control over the squad. Paris is in absolute control. So what do you want to say or criticize? […] Within this constraints, he maintains a strong DNA. The youngsters demonstrate a good spirit. And then on the pitch, come what may.”
It’s a rather special moment, with Daniel Riolo, who for a long time was very critical of Luis Enrique, now full of praise. And this isn’t the first time, which seems to confirm that this isn’t just a slightly crazy attempt. The Parisian coach managed to convince the journalist.
Beyond this observation, it should be noted that the Parisian coach’s choices are highly accurate. Almost everyone had predicted a very difficult start to the season for PSG, even a “hell” was mentioned. There were certainly physical problems, unsurprisingly. They even had the misfortune of quickly finding themselves in the same position, with a very affected attack (Désiré Doué and Ousmane Dembélé injured during the same match for the French national team).
But Luis Enrique knew how to adapt, without ever complaining and only displaying confidence. His team was able to maintain a certain level of play in most matches, the playing philosophy is clear, and the results are there, even if there are a few hiccups. PSG are first in Ligue 1 and have two wins in two Champions League matches, and have a trip to face FC Barcelona. It is important to highlight this, as Paris has perhaps faced the most difficult part of the season in its squad management after a preparation which was done in competition.
