Luis Enrique Asserts Club Supremacy Ahead of Champions League Clash

omidbasir- Ahead of the Champions League knockout phase playoff against AS Monaco, Paris Saint-Germain’s coach Luis Enrique firmly stated that no player will be allowed to eclipse the club’s stature.

This declaration comes in response to Ousmane Dembélé’s remarks following PSG’s unexpected 3-1 Ligue 1 defeat to Rennes, which resulted in the team losing its position at the top of the table to Lens. Dembélé suggested that individualistic play among teammates hindered their performance, stating, “If we play as individuals, it won’t work.”

In contrast, Enrique dismissed these assertions, deeming them “worthless” and stating, “The players’ statements after the match are worthless. Absolutely worthless. I will not entertain any questions or responses from players. I will never allow any player to think they are more important than the club. This is clear; I am responsible for the team.”

Enrique emphasized that these comments stemmed from post-match frustration and reiterated that the team has nothing to lose at this stage. The champions had aimed to extend their lead at the top of the table but were surprisingly defeated by a Rennes side still reeling from their managerial changes.

Despite having possession, PSG fell behind after Musa Al-Taamari’s first-half goal. Esteban Lepaul doubled the lead in the 69th minute, and although Dembélé managed to score against his former team, Breel Embolo sealed the win for Rennes with a third goal.

Post-match, Dembélé directed criticism at unspecified teammates, stressing the necessity of team unity for victory. He remarked, “We have to play for PSG to win matches. If we play as individuals, we won’t achieve the titles we desire. Last season, we prioritized the club above all else, and we must reclaim that mentality, especially in crucial matches.”

PSG will face Monaco over two legs, seeking to advance to the last 16 of the Champions League after failing to build on their successful campaign last season. Under Enrique’s leadership, the team has fostered greater unity, contrasting with previous seasons dominated by star players like Kylian Mbappé, Neymar, and Lionel Messi.

Enrique’s strict approach became evident when he benched Dembélé for a Champions League match against Arsenal due to disciplinary reasons, a decision that ultimately benefitted the player, who tallied 35 goals last season and helped PSG secure their first Champions League title.

Having endured a grueling season that extended to mid-July and saw some players participating in over 60 matches, PSG has faced injury challenges this year. Dembélé, for instance, has struggled to build rapport with Désiré Doué due to repeated injuries.

Last season, PSG advanced to the last 16 by defeating Brest 10-0 over two legs, but the upcoming encounter against Monaco is expected to be more challenging. Monaco previously triumphed over PSG in Ligue 1 and has recently fortified its defense, recording four clean sheets in six matches.

Coach Sébastien Pocognoli is assessing the fitness of key players, including attacking midfielder Maghnes Akliouche and winger Ansu Fati, yet he reiterated that the outcome of this tie would not define his team’s season. “My primary goal is to ensure a successful season,” Pocognoli asserted. “This match is a component of that objective. We are the underdogs, and we must fully embrace that status to maximize our chances of qualification.”