Paris Saint-Germain won 4-0 against Atalanta on Wednesday at the Parc des Princes, in the first matchday of the 2025-2026 Champions League. After this victory, Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique spoke at the press conference.
Enrique: “It was difficult, but we deserved the victory.”
Are you at the same level as last season?
“That’s not our intention. Our intention was to play this first match, which was very important for us. I think we played a very good match against a team that defends with a man-to-man marking system, which is always difficult. It was difficult, but we deserved the victory.”
It’s an important week, with this Champions League match and the trip to Marseille. How do you approach this match?
“I watched the match yesterday, and that’s all. We know how important this match is for our fans. We know this rivalry. We are very happy to play this match; I hope we can play at our best level to try to win.”
Enrique: “When you start this competition, intensity and quality are the most important things.”
Any news on Joao Neves?
“Nothing on Joao Neves yet; we are waiting for the results of the tests. We will have more information tomorrow or the day after.”
What did you like about your team tonight?
“What I like most is the mentality. When you start this competition, intensity and quality are the most important things. We overcame a very high press, and I think we played a very good match.”
What did you appreciate about watching the first half from the stands?
“It’s always better because you have more information. The view is better. It’s much easier to see the opponent’s identity and their pressing style.” Enrique: “We are on the path we started two years ago”
Against Marseille and Barcelona, do you plan to watch the first half from the stands?
“Away from home? No, I don’t think that will be possible. I will stay down with my players.”
What are your feelings after such a well-played match?
“It’s our mentality, our ambition. It’s the support of our fans. Playing in a wonderful stadium. We are on the path we started two years ago, and that’s wonderful. We can still improve.”
Enrique: “It’s always great to see a defender score a goal”
Why did you choose to start Senny Mayulu?
“We thought that with Atlanta’s high press, if we put Senny Mayulu at striker, who can make runs in behind and also receive the ball and create numerical superiority, I think it would be very good for the team. We created a lot of opportunities. Then, with Gonçalo Ramos, he was at a very high level as usual.”
Marquinhos scored PSG’s first European goal; is that symbolic?
“It’s always great to see a defender score a goal. Marquinhos has scored many goals for PSG. I’m happy. He has that quality from set pieces.”
Enrique: “We are still in the same form as last year.”
Do you feel that PSG has had a good pre-season and is ready for this season?
“I think we had few days off, and we are still in the same form as last year. We love playing football. It’s the beginning of the season, but we have to think positively.”
