Guillaume Hoarau, former Paris Saint-Germain striker (2008-2013) and now a pundit for Ligue1+, was invited by Le Parisien to answer several questions about PSG’s 2025-2026 French league title win on Wednesday night in Lens (a rescheduled match from Matchday 29 of Ligue 1), just before Matchday 34. The striker, who has five caps for the French national team, highlighted the contribution of coach Luis Enrique, despite his doubts about the first season.
Hoarau: “Paris really managed their season.”
“A title of patience or less clear domination?
I’d say it was all planned. Paris really managed their season. They never worried; they knew what they were doing. A quiet strength emanated from this team. This created a bit more suspense, and we must highlight the performances of Lens and Lyon.
But Luis Enrique never deviated from his strategy; he managed his squad perfectly and didn’t hesitate to rest certain players like Marquinhos. Paris had a tailor-made season with the Champions League as their main objective.
Hoarau: “This team can serve as an example.”
Is this a title that bears the mark of the Parisian collective?
Yes, because Luis Enrique focuses on collective values, on solidarity and generosity. This team can serve as an example for other Ligue 1 clubs after years where stats and individual talent took precedence.
Hoarau: “What strikes me, “It’s his passion.”
What strikes me most about Luis Enrique?
“I want to shake his hand and congratulate him on his resilience. Two years ago, I was one of those people who didn’t quite understand what he was trying to achieve. What strikes me is his passion. He’s not some 2.0 coach who wants to be a rock star. He lives each match to the very end, and even when his team is winning, he lives in the moment. He doesn’t live for the cameras. He’s simply a sincere person. The French league owes him a debt of gratitude.”
PSG and Luis Enrique have once again been criticized this season, whether for their style of play or for not being active enough in the transfer market. We’re used to it; everything is often dramatized without perspective. Mind you, we can point out areas to correct or improve, but it’s often done without restraint.
We knew the first few months would be difficult, since Paris had only three weeks between seasons, meaning almost no rest and even less physical preparation. The Parisians had to gradually build momentum throughout the season, managing their workload and playing time while relying on their talented squad. Recruiting more players was possible, but the balance of the squad also had to be considered. And even the club’s balance, as the youth academy needs space.
We also shouldn’t forget the difficulty of players leaving for their national teams, where PSG no longer has complete control. The injuries to Ousmane Dembélé and Désiré Doué at the start of the season weighed heavily. Even though we expected a few setbacks, of course.
Fortunately, PSG isn’t letting itself be unsettled. This is a major strength of the revival since the arrival of coach Luis Enrique. There’s no doubt displayed, whether in matches or in front of the press. This group is what it can achieve and is pushing in that direction. A few setbacks are normal. There’s a desire to improve, but without questioning everything after every defeat.
The Parisian coach is undeniably passionate, trying to work with the media even if he’s not always a fan. And we can understand him, given the criticism he’s faced. He simply wants to be fully committed to football, with a philosophy that is now admired. It’s all about the team, further strengthened by the players’ versatility.
Of course, not everyone can do the same thing. It also depends on the players. PSG has a very attacking style of play that doesn’t suit everyone. However, the idea of prioritizing the team over individual statistics or egos is possible for everyone. The key is to convince the players so that everyone buys into it. Unfortunately, it’s not always easy. Nevertheless, it’s a great example to follow.
