Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique said the upcoming Club World Cup semi-final against Real Madrid is a “special” match. But he did not want to talk about his relationship with Kylian Mbappe before facing the star player again. Speaking to reporters at a press conference near New York’s MetLife Stadium, where the match will happen, Enrique said, “Playing against Real Madrid is always special.” He added that PSG is happy to be in this important game because it shows they have done well so far. PSG arrived in the United States for the tournament after winning the UEFA Champions League for the first time, just after Mbappe moved to Real Madrid.
The captain of France was left out of the PSG team at first because he didn’t want to sign a new contract. Even after returning, he was not used much, as he had made it clear he planned to leave the club.
Speaking ahead of the big match, PSG coach Luis Enrique said, “That’s all in the past now. We’ve moved on.”
He added, “There are many reasons this match is special. It’s a semi-final of the Club World Cup, which is already a huge occasion. We have to stay focused because we’re so close to reaching the final. That itself is great motivation.”
However, PSG will be without two key defenders — Willian Pacho and Lucas Hernandez — both suspended after being sent off in their quarter-final victory against Bayern Munich.
Luis Enrique, who has a strong connection with Barcelona but also played for Real Madrid in the 1990s, said, “It’s hard to evaluate Real Madrid right now because Xabi is just getting started. But playing against Madrid has always been a pleasure for me, and it always will be.”
He added, “They are the most successful club in the world, and Xabi has everything he needs to succeed in this job.”
Real Madrid’s preparations for the match faced a delay as their flight to New York from Florida was postponed due to bad weather. Coach Xabi Alonso did not speak to the media on Tuesday because of the travel disruption.
The winner of this exciting semi-final between PSG and Real Madrid will face Chelsea in the final on Sunday. The English club secured their spot after a 2-0 win over Fluminense in the other semi-final.
FAQ
What did Luis Enrique say about the PSG vs Real Madrid match?
Luis Enrique called the upcoming clash “special” and expressed excitement about facing Real Madrid in the Club World Cup, highlighting its importance and emotional value.
Why is this match considered ‘special’?
This match is special because it features two of Europe’s biggest clubs with rich histories. It also carries emotional weight for Luis Enrique, who played for and managed FC Barcelona, Real Madrid’s biggest rival.
When will the PSG vs Real Madrid match take place?
The exact date depends on the Club World Cup schedule, but it is set during the knockout stages of the 2025 tournament.
Has PSG ever played Real Madrid in the Club World Cup before?
No, this is their first meeting in a Club World Cup setting, adding more anticipation and significance to the game.
What’s at stake in this match?
The winner advances further in the Club World Cup, moving closer to the prestigious title of world club champion.